Islamabad, April 3, 2025: Faheem Ashraf emphasized team spirit after Pakistan suffered 84-run loss to New Zealand in the second ODI.
After opting to field first, bowlers managed to keep the home side to 292/8, despite a crucial unbeaten 99-run innings from wicketkeeper-batter Mitchell Hay.
Mohammad Wasim Jr and Sufiyan Muqeem picked up two wickets each, while Faheem Ashraf, Akif Javed, and Haris Rauf contributed with one scalp apiece.
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In pursuit of the target, the national batting struggled, collapsing for 208 in 41.2 overs despite notable half-centuries from Faheem and Naseem Shah.
The bowling all-rounder led the scoring with a resilient 73 off 80 balls, while star pacer Naseem Shah added a spirited 51 from 44 deliveries.
The loss sealed the series for New Zealand, giving them an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series with one game left.
Speaking after the match, Faheem Ashraf urged the players to support each other rather than focusing solely on individual performances.
The right-handed bowler believed that fostering unity within the national team could help them end their losing streak.
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He pointed out that every player was making an effort to secure victories, but success required collective backing rather than isolated contributions.
According to the 31-year-old cricketer, merely fulfilling personal responsibilities and stepping aside would not lead to progress.
Faheem Ashraf remained confident, stressing that winning was possible with the right mindset and competitive cricket.
Faheem, who represented Pakistan in 31 ODI matches reminded that similar situations had occurred in the past, and teams had managed to turn things around.
With one match remaining, the Men in Green will look to salvage some pride in the series and regain momentum ahead of future assignments.
It is pertinent to mention here that Green Shirts also lost a five-match T20I series against the home side by 4-1.
