'Akmal's batting was awesome in closing stages'

Abu Dhabi: Shoaib Malek, skipper of the Pakistan team, was a happy man on Wednesday night. He led from the front with a brilliant half-century to accelerate the run rate but like a true leader, attributed the success of the team over West Indies to his players' never-say-die attitude.

Malek spoke in depth about this team's strategy in chasing a mammoth total. Excerpts:

Gulf News: Did you think your team could chase down such a huge target?

Malek: When I was batting with Fawad Alam, I was relaxed because I knew Kamran Akmal is there to follow in as the next batsman. They way Akmal batted in the closing stages is awesome. Everyone contributed well. I am so happy that even opener Khurram Manzoor, playing in only his second game for Pakistan, batted so well. It is a good sign for Pakistan.

What went through your mind while chasing the score and when the asking rate kept mounting?

I kept telling myself that what we needed was one boundary and five singles from one over. And as long as the left-right combination went on between Fawad Alam and me, I knew the bowlers will be off target. Anytime, such a combination can always unsettle even the best of bowlers.

How confident were you that Akmal would do it?

Akmal is someone with eight centuries in international cricket and I knew he was capable of doing it.

Do you think your bowlers failed to contain the West Indies batsmen?

We had West Indies under control in the early stage of the match. Gayle and Sarwan played beautifully and increased the run rate. Most subcontinent wickets favour the batsmen. That is why I introduced spinners because there are chances of batsmen going for a big hit and getting out.

What has been the contribution of Inthikab Alam as coach?

He is a very experienced player himself. He was also coach of the Pakistan team twice and this is his third stint. He does one-to-one sessions with the players and it has given them a lot of confidence.