Didn't allow pressure to dicate terms while batting: Sean Williams
Nelson, Feb 19 (IANS) Zimbabwean all-rounder Sean Williams, awarded the Man-of-the-Match for his all round performance against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in a World Cup Pool B encounter, said he batted according to the match situation and patiently built up his innings, not allowing pressure get the better of him.
Chasing a formidable 285, Zimbabwe surpassed the score with 12 balls to spare and four wickets in hand, helped by Williams' unbeaten 76 at the Saxton Oval.
Zimbabwe were under pressure in the middle overs as they kept losing wickets and were uncomfortably placed at 167 for five in the 33rd over. Williams and Craig Ervine (42) then built up an 83-run partnership to secure the victory. Elton Chigumbura was the other, not out batsmen at the time of victory (14).
"I tried not to feel the pressure, we lost wickets at the wrong stages, but the wicket was very good just to keep knocking the ball down the ground," said Williams at the post match presentation ceremony here.
The 28-year-old all-rounder, who also took two wickets, credited the UAE bowlers for bowling a probing line and length. He added that the wicket was a nice strip to bat on it was difficult to play the horizontal shots.
"I've been trying to punch it down the ground and build innings. Some of their guys bowled really well to us, credit to them for making it difficult for us. Wicket was very good for playing straight. Anything across the line was difficult. Started to lose pace towards the end."