Ashfaq Ahmed is hoping there's more UAE international centuries to come

Denzil Pinto 14:36 17/02/2018
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  • Ashfaq Ahmed

    Ashfaq Ahmed is relieved to have finally scored his maiden international century and hopes this is just the start of more big runs with the UAE.

    The opening batsman was only drafted into the set-up in October’s 5-0 series whitewash over Zimbabwe ‘A’, but has made a big impact in a short space of time.

    In his 16 matches so far, the 32-year-old has scored two half-centuries as well as his first-ever ton in the seven-run victory over Nepal in the World Cricket League Division Two final. That saw both finalists advance to the World Cup Qualifier in Zimbabwe.

    For Ahmed, he stated his latest knock was pretty special considering it came in a final and at international level.

    “I am so happy because of course it’s my first century for the UAE so it’s really good,” he said.

    “I hope I can score more centuries because that’s what every batsman wants when they play. To have scored it in a final was even more special. I’m really enjoying myself with the UAE and hope to play as many matches as possible.

    “At international level, matches are difficult because you are coming up against really good players but I will keep on trying my best. I will continue to work hard, Inshallah.”

    Head coach Dougie Brown says he’s been impressed with how Ahmed has developed and believes he will be a key player for the team in the future.

    He was one of three players along with Amir Hayat and Mohammed Bootha to be given his debut in the Zimbabwe ‘A’ series.

    “We knew he was a very good player,” he said. “He really got stuck into the culture of the team and he’s a bit of a character.

    “There is no doubt that he has an ability to play really well. He was one of three players who we thought could compete at the next level.

    “I thought his performance over the past month or so, was exceptional although he missed out on the century against Scotland.”

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