World record-setter Abid has no complaints

ISLAMABAD: I have no complaints with Pakistan cricket-that is how Abid Ali reacted to The News question put to him for such a delayed Test cricket debut.

Abid waited for long to finally get opportunity to represent the country in Test cricket. During all these years he kept on reminding selectors with powerful performance at the first class level. “I have no complaints with the Pakistan cricket or selectors for not giving me opportunity to represent the country at the highest level earlier. I knew well the opportunity would come. I knew I would get a chance. What I did was to keep working hard in a hope that when that chance would come I will make my debut opportunity count,” Abid who was named Man of the Match for his record breaking hundred on debut said.

He became the first ever batsman in history to have scored hundred on one-day and Test debut. “I am thankful to Allah Almighty who has given me the opportunity at Test level.” He called on the youngsters not to lose heart. “Keep on working hard. Allah will provide you opportunity. I am thankful to all my coach, captain and Babar Azam for supporting me Sunday on my way to hundred.”

Abid Ali especially thanked Islamabad Regional cricket head Shakil Sheikh for providing him opportunity to play first class cricket for the capital.

During post-match press conference Abid said: “I am thankful to Shakil Sheikh as he had given me opportunity to represent Islamabad team in first class cricket during my tough days. I am really obliged to him and feel that his contributions are there in my career.” Abid also praised Pakistan head coach Misbahul Haq for backing his inclusion on the Test team. “I knew I was to make Test debut in Pindi. I am thankful to Misbah for reposing trust in my abilities. What he told me was to stay at the wicket and you would get chance of scoring and lose deliveries in the process.”