Published: Dec 31, 2012, 01:51 PM (IST)
Edited: Dec 31, 2012, 01:51 PM (IST)
Nasir Jamshed acknowledges after completing his second ODI ton, against India at Chennai © PTI
Chennai: Dec 31, 2012
Pakistan opener Nasir Jamshed, who slammed his second One-Day International century against India on Sunday, is happy that his effort contributed in his team’s win against the arch rivals in the first ODI at Chennai.
Jamshed struck an unbeaten 101 off 132 balls to help Pakistan chase a target of 228 set by India in the first ODI at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
This was Jamshed’s second ODI ton, with his first also coming against the arch rivals earlier this year. But, his effort in the Asia Cup 2012 match went in vain as Virat Kohli’s brilliant knock of 183 stole all the limelight.
Jamshed told bcci.tv, “This is my second ODI century against India and I am feeling really great that this time I’m on the winning side. This is a special feeling and it has come by the grace of God. I also thank my captain for showing immense confidence in me, and my teammates and support staff for helping me in every way.”
Jamshed said the pressure associated with any bilateral series against India is always high, but he didn’t read too much into it.
“It’s a big series for us and India as well because so many people follow it. But I tried my best to not think too much about it and play like I’m playing any other game. I tried to take the crowd and the opposition out of the picture and concentrate on my game. It wasn’t easy but I had to do that in order to get the best out of myself,” he said.
The 23-year-old left-hand batsman feels presence of experienced cricketers like Younis Khan and Misbah-ul-Haq takes the pressure off youngsters.
“It was really helpful having senior batting partners like Misbah-ul-Haq and Younis Khan who have played against India so many times before. Younis bhai has always done well against India and I benefitted a lot from his guidance in the middle,” he said.
Jamshed also praised Indian seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who has impressed in his first few games in the national side.
“He’s a tough bowler to face and an excellent prospect for India. He’s capable of swinging the ball really well and facing him up front in swinging conditions was a challenge. I hope he plays for India for a long time,” Jamshed said.
The Pakistan opener added that his side won’t take the foot off pedal after winning the first game.
“We let the T20 series slip away in the second game, but we’ll try our best to keep the momentum going in the ODIs and win this series. I too want to continue improving my form with each game and play a crucial role in the team’s wins,” he concluded.
