DUBAI: In-form Pakistan wicket-keeper batsman Sarfraz Ahmed Thursday said that hard work after his comeback last year has been paying off.
The 27-year-old right-hander hit a robust, match shifting 112 to help Pakistan post a challenging 393 in reply to New Zealand's 403.
At one point Pakistan were in danger of conceding a big lead to New Zealand but Sarfraz put on a record 81 runs stand for the tenth wicket with Rahat Ali (16 not out) to avoid that danger.
At close on the fourth day, New Zealand had reached 167/6, an overall lead of 177.
Sarfraz said his hard work coupled with support from the team management has paid off.
"I made a comeback on this same ground last year and at that time I thought it’s my last chance to cement my place," said Sarfraz. "I did extra hard work and the team management and all the players in the team backed me. With the prayers of my family, now I am the top run getter as wicketkeeper this year."
Sarfraz praised Rahat.
"When I came to bat (on third day), it was a different situation and I had a good partnership with Asad (Shafiq) but unfortunately he got out, then today we lost two quick wickets so I asked Rahat to stay and help me. He did that and we managed to put up a good partnership and reduced the lead," said Sarfraz.
"It’s a nice feeling to score a hundred and more so because it helped the team reduce the lead."
Sarfraz said the Dubai stadium pitch was taking turn but Pakistan can still chase the target.
"It's getting turn but it’s not much so if we get their last four wickets for 50-60 runs, then we can chase the target."
Asked if this is his best hundred, Sarfraz said: "If we win the Test then I will say that this is my best innings."
