Shadab played a decisive role in Pakistan’s successful chase of 242, holding his nerve under pressure while batting alongside the tail. His innings proved crucial as the hosts recovered from a difficult position to cross the finish line.
Reflecting on his performance, Shadab acknowledged that his recent displays had attracted criticism but said the management’s faith in him deserved recognition.
Shadab Thanks Management for Standing by Him
“Obviously, in the recent past, I did not have such good performances. Criticism was directed at me and, obviously, at the management. Obviously, there was faith. I think they deserve more credit for having faith in me,” Shadab said.
The all-rounder said he had continued trying to improve despite his struggles and credited his faith for giving him the courage to persevere.
“As a professional, you keep trying to do your best. Unfortunately, I could not do that. But Allah gave me the courage, and He set the stage for me,” he added.
His century marked a significant personal milestone and came at a critical moment for Pakistan as the team attempted to complete a challenging run chase.
Haris Rauf’s Patience Proves Crucial
Shadab also praised fast bowler Haris Rauf for his contribution during their decisive partnership.
The all-rounder said the pair had not followed any complicated plans, instead focusing on staying calm and responding to the situation.
“To tell you the truth, we did not have any special cricketing plans. We were trying to have fun, and we were having fun. The situation was such that we were going with the flow,” he said.
Shadab credited Rauf for showing patience rather than attempting to hit every delivery aggressively, a quality he said was particularly important for a tail-end batter.
“He had belief in himself and was telling me that if I did not get out, he would not get out either,” Shadab said.
He added that their experience of batting together in a difficult previous series had strengthened his confidence in Rauf.
Review Drama Adds to Tension
Shadab recalled a tense moment when he appeared to have edged the ball, but a review allowed him to remain at the crease.
He said he had initially believed the match was over, not because he thought he had edged the delivery, but because he was frustrated at missing what he considered a boundary opportunity.
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He explained that Rauf, frustrated by the situation, asked for the review, which ultimately gave Pakistan another chance to continue the chase.
The incident highlighted the pressure surrounding the closing stages of the match, when Pakistan’s hopes rested on the lower order’s ability to remain composed.
Shadab Says He Focused on His Plans
The all-rounder said he had largely tuned out the crowd while batting, concentrating instead on his approach and the requirements of the match.
“I honestly don’t hear anything from outside when I am batting. You are in that zone where you are focused on your plans,” he said.
Shadab also stressed that players should be prepared to contribute regardless of their batting position in ODI cricket.
He said Pakistan had been under pressure when he came to the crease and that his responsibility as a senior player was to assess the situation before shaping his innings around the team’s needs.
“There was no particular motivation or anger,” he said, describing his approach as a straightforward effort to help the team recover.
Glenn Maxwell’s World Cup Innings a Source of Inspiration
Shadab pointed to Australia’s Glenn Maxwell as an example of how a remarkable innings on a major international stage can influence a team’s fortunes.
He said Maxwell’s memorable World Cup performance had helped change the momentum for Australia, adding that Pakistan could also benefit from similarly significant contributions.
Shadab acknowledged that the next World Cup remained some distance away but said he would aim to reproduce his performance if selected.
“We have never played on such a big stage. But if we get the opportunity, we will do our best to win,” he said.
Family Support Remains Important
Shadab also credited his family for supporting him during a challenging period in his career.
The all-rounder said he wanted to contribute with both bat and ball whenever the team needed him, emphasising that his role required consistent performances in both departments.
He said he aimed to take wickets when given the opportunity to bowl and deliver with the bat in situations where Pakistan needed runs.
His century against England offered a timely reminder of his batting ability and provided a boost as Pakistan continued its campaign in the ODI tri-series.
