Pakistan’s star pacer Naseem Shah has dedicated his record-breaking performance to his mother in the first ODI against New Zealand.
Naseem Shah rattled the batting lineup of New Zealand in the first ODI played in Karachi. Shah claimed five wickets and became the only bowler in the history of ODIs to claim 15 wickets in the first four ODIs. Pakistan also registered its ninth consecutive victory in the ODIs. Pakistan has the opportunity to become the top ODI side if its defeats New Zealand in the three-match ODI series.
Talking about his performance following the match, the 19-year-old bowler said that he would dedicate his performance to his late mother. The cricketer said that he wished his mother was alive to see his performances. Shah recalled how he used to talk to his mother about his dream of performing and playing for Pakistan.
He said he had promised his mother then whenever he will take five wickets he will dedicate it to her. He said that though she is not here with her she is always in her heart and mind.
The cricketer added that the joy of the performance amplifies when the team wins the match. Naseem Shah made his Test debut in 2019 against Australia. He said he played on his strengths; the first wicket gave him the confidence to take more wickets.
.@iNaseemShah talks about dedicating his match-winning performance to his late mother and gaining confidence from his spell today.#PAKvNZ | #TayyariKiwiHai pic.twitter.com/iGxnW8GWBT
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) January 9, 2023
It's the best feeling ever when Pakistan wins, performance ka maza hi tub hai! Everyone has played their part in winning, @babarazam258 @iMRizwanPak @mnawaz94 @Wasim_Jnr, it's a team effort!
Congrats to @iamusamamir, for a well-deserved debut. All eyes to the next game now! pic.twitter.com/qCQkPCOzV5
— Naseem Shah (@iNaseemShah) January 9, 2023
Naseem Shah made himself visible from both bat and ball in recent months. His remarkable two sixes against Afghanistan took Pakistan to the final of the Asia Cup. His bowling spell in the final of the T20 World Cup against England was lauded by cricket commentators and fans from all over the world.
Read more: Naseem Shah: Gets global glory after hat-trick feat against Bangladesh
Naseem Shah made his Test debut with Pakistan in 2019 a week after his mother passed away. Despite the grief, he opted to remain with the team.