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Salman Agha speaks at the post-match press conference after the 3rd T20I between Sri Lanka and Pakistan:
Q: How did you feel about the team’s effort while chasing 161 in just 12 overs?
Salman Ali Agha: "It was a fantastic game. The stadium was packed, and I think the fans truly enjoyed the spectacle. Personally, I enjoyed it too. It would have been even better had we finished on the winning side. While we conceded a few too many runs—160 in 12 overs is always a steep mountain to climb—we never lost faith. We believe we can chase down any target set for us, which is why we were able to get so close. It was a lovely, entertaining match."
Q: Can you talk us through your own performance? It was pure entertainment.
Salman Ali Agha: "When you're chasing a target like 160 in such a short window, you don't have time to overthink. You simply watch the ball and try to maximize every single delivery. That was my mindset. I only wish I could have stayed at the crease for another three or four overs; it would have made for an even more exciting finish. I’d be much happier, however, if my performance had led to a victory."
Q: With one game washed out, would you have preferred a longer five-match series to better prepare for the World Cup?
Salman Ali Agha: "I would have loved a five-game series, or at least three full matches, so we could have determined a clear winner. However, this was vital preparation for the World Cup. We know it often rains in Sri Lanka, so today was a great lesson in how to bowl and field with a wet ball. That is going to be a major factor in the upcoming tournament, and I think we handled that challenge well."
Q: What were the main positives and lessons you took from this series?
Salman Ali Agha: "The biggest lesson was learning to manage a wet ball and a slick outfield. On the positive side, I thought the way Nafay batted was outstanding, and Salman’s bowling was very impressive. It was also great to see Shadab Khan return from a long injury layoff; he performed well with both bat and ball in this series."
Q: How would you rate the pitch and the atmosphere created by the fans?
Salman Ali Agha: "The pitch was excellent; I always enjoy batting here. As for the atmosphere, the Sri Lankan fans are always incredible. I’ve been coming here since my Test debut in Galle, and whether it’s for ODIs or other tours, the hospitality is always top-notch. This was my fourth or fifth visit, and I’m already looking forward to returning for the World Cup."
Q: You played this series without four of your premier players. Does it give you confidence to see the team compete so well despite those absences?
Salman Ali Agha: "It’s a great sign for the team. Even without four of our premier players, the younger guys stepped up and competed at a high level. They are raising their hands and performing when needed. Once our senior players return for the next series and the World Cup, we’ll have a very strong blend of youth and experience."
Q: How did you feel about the team’s effort while chasing 161 in just 12 overs?
Salman Ali Agha: "It was a fantastic game. The stadium was packed, and I think the fans truly enjoyed the spectacle. Personally, I enjoyed it too. It would have been even better had we finished on the winning side. While we conceded a few too many runs—160 in 12 overs is always a steep mountain to climb—we never lost faith. We believe we can chase down any target set for us, which is why we were able to get so close. It was a lovely, entertaining match."
Q: Can you talk us through your own performance? It was pure entertainment.
Salman Ali Agha: "When you're chasing a target like 160 in such a short window, you don't have time to overthink. You simply watch the ball and try to maximize every single delivery. That was my mindset. I only wish I could have stayed at the crease for another three or four overs; it would have made for an even more exciting finish. I’d be much happier, however, if my performance had led to a victory."
Q: With one game washed out, would you have preferred a longer five-match series to better prepare for the World Cup?
Salman Ali Agha: "I would have loved a five-game series, or at least three full matches, so we could have determined a clear winner. However, this was vital preparation for the World Cup. We know it often rains in Sri Lanka, so today was a great lesson in how to bowl and field with a wet ball. That is going to be a major factor in the upcoming tournament, and I think we handled that challenge well."
Q: What were the main positives and lessons you took from this series?
Salman Ali Agha: "The biggest lesson was learning to manage a wet ball and a slick outfield. On the positive side, I thought the way Nafay batted was outstanding, and Salman’s bowling was very impressive. It was also great to see Shadab Khan return from a long injury layoff; he performed well with both bat and ball in this series."
Q: How would you rate the pitch and the atmosphere created by the fans?
Salman Ali Agha: "The pitch was excellent; I always enjoy batting here. As for the atmosphere, the Sri Lankan fans are always incredible. I’ve been coming here since my Test debut in Galle, and whether it’s for ODIs or other tours, the hospitality is always top-notch. This was my fourth or fifth visit, and I’m already looking forward to returning for the World Cup."
Q: You played this series without four of your premier players. Does it give you confidence to see the team compete so well despite those absences?
Salman Ali Agha: "It’s a great sign for the team. Even without four of our premier players, the younger guys stepped up and competed at a high level. They are raising their hands and performing when needed. Once our senior players return for the next series and the World Cup, we’ll have a very strong blend of youth and experience."
