Hasan Ali eyes series win against Proteas

Pakistan fast-bowler Hasan Ali is optimistic about team’s chances of winning the ongoing ODI series against South Africa.

 Pakistan went one-nil up in the five-match series after opener Imamul Haq and middle-order batsman Mohammad Hafeez set up a five-wicket win for Pakistan in the first one-day international against South Africa at St George's Park on Saturday.

Speaking ahead of the second ODI in Durban on Tuesday, Ali said that the Pakistan team is in a good position to secure the series.

“This is a good opportunity for us to win the series and we are looking forward to the upcoming matches,” said Ali during a pre-match press conference.

Hashim Amla's 27th one-day international century was not enough for South Africa, who lost only two wickets in scoring 266 runs after winning the toss during the first ODI.

Amla (108 not out) and new cap Hendrick 'Rassie' van der Dussen (93) put on 155 for South Africa's second wicket but although they gradually increased the tempo of their partnership they were unable to dominate the bowling.

While sharing his thoughts on this, Ali was surprised over South Africa’s slow end to the innings.

“South Africa were in a good position up until the 40-over mark which is why it was surprising to see them no go for quick runs at the death,” he said. “Cricket has changed over the past few years and scores around 300 are more competitive.”

Ali was the pick of the bowlers for Pakistan with figures of 42-1, during the first ODI. His bowling exploits also included 30 dot balls — which was the most by any Pakistan bowler during the match.

While talking on Pakistan’s bowling, Ali stressed on the importance of bowling dot balls consistently.

 “We are working on doing the basics right,” he said. “We focus on bowling a lot of dot balls and also discuss the same with our bowling coach and team management.”

The second ODI between Pakistan and South Africa will be played in Durban on January 22, 2019.