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Fakhar Zaman says Pakistan favourites to win 2019 World Cup in England

Waseem Ahmed

20:46 26/08/2018

Pakistan opening batsman Fakhar Zaman said his team are favourites to win next year’s World Cup in England.

Zaman was one of the star performers for Pakistan during last year’s Champions Trophy win in England. The left-hander hit a sizzling century in the final against India as the men in green crushed their traditional rivals by 180 runs at The Oval.

The 28-year-old Zaman has so far played 18 ODIs, scoring 1065 runs at a staggering average of 76. He also became the first Pakistan batsman to hit an ODI double hundred – 210 against Zimbabwe in July.

Zaman said Pakistan’s recent record and their win in the Champions Trophy make them favourites for the World Cup.

“The current Pakistan team combination is brilliant and the results we have recently produced are good proof of that,” he was quoted as saying by Sky Sports.

“We will travel to England to win the title and not just to make up the numbers. I do feel that it is right for us to be labelled favourites for the 2019 World Cup as our team will be well equipped for this tournament.”

Fakhar Zaman (l).

ASIA CUP NEXT

Pakistan’s immediate goal is the Asia Cup in September, which also includes India, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka and a qualifier.

“At the moment, I am fully focused on doing well in the upcoming Asia Cup,” he said. “Of course, the 2019 World Cup is an important tournament, but it’s far too early for me to start planning for it as there are other international assignments to take care of before that tournament.”

Zaman has been brilliant in white ball cricket but is yet to represent his country in Tests. Pakistan’s next red-ball clash will be against Australia and New Zealand in the UAE and the opener is hoping to get an opportunity.

“Regardless of which team I play against, the fact is that Test cricket is one format that provides the ultimate test of skills for a player and to perform well in this form of the game is my dream. When that opportunity does arrive, I will do my best,” Zaman said.

“While I could not debut in Tests during the recent tour of Ireland and England, I learnt a lot from that tour and also worked very hard on my batting technique, which I feel will help me in Tests.

“I do not know what the future holds for me in Test cricket but I can confidently say that I am continuing to prepare well and will be ready if I am given a chance.”

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