Man of the Match Abid Ali keen to perform well despite irregular inclusion in team

• Abid Ali says he remains positive and continues to train.
• "Good thing to have a tough competition for the opening slot," opening batsman said.

Pakistan opening batsman Abid Ali made a comeback in style after his blistering innings of 74 runs allowed his side beat Sri Lanka by five wickets in the third One Day International, also letting the batsman to earn a Man of the Match award.

The opener has always managed to make a mark despite only getting a chance in absence of fellow opener Imam-ul-Haq. However, the 31-year-old says he remains positive and keep training. “It is a good thing to have a tough competition for the opening slot, so I am always looking to give top performance and make a good comeback,” said Abid during the post match conference.

The opening batsman dedicated the Man of the Match innings to his daughter and went on to thank the Sri Lankan cricket team for coming to Pakistan. He also applauded his countrymen for their support as they drew in huge numbers at National Stadium, Karachi.

“I remain positive being a professional my task is to give performance whenever the chance is given,” he said.

Abid added that the team is working on improving their finishing down the order. “Finishing is quite important and we are working on it, especially Misbah-ul-Haq is focused on improving this part of our game.”

The opening batsman further added that he admires international cricket stars and is particularly fond of Misbah and Younis Khan. “I used to watch videos of international cricketers, but during my First-class days I used to look up to Misbah and Younis and try to learn for them as much I could,” he said.

Pakistan beat Sri Lanka by five wickets in the third and final day-night international in Karachi on Wednesday, taking the three-match series 2-0.