Fazal makes an impression at the international level : At 30, he is no youngster. But Fazal has been making waves in the domestic circuit and was badly in need of an opportunity to show case his talent at the international level.
Given the composition of Team India, it was really difficult for a player like Fazal to penetrate into the Indian dressing room.
However, the ongoing series against Zimbabwe proved to be a ‘blessing in disguise’ for this southpaw who plays for Vidharbha in the domestic circuit.
Having gone ahead 2-0 in the three match ODI series, the Indian skipper, MS Dhoni, thought it fit to handover the India ODI cap to Fazal and this was the moment that Faiz had been waiting for.
Grabbing the opportunity with both hands, Fazal went on to play a very key role in India making a ‘clean sweep’ of their opposition.
Having to chase 124 runs for a win in the third and final encounter at the Harare Sports Club, Fazal accompanied KL Rahul to open the innings.
The duo stayed put together for 21.5 overs and ensured a 10-wicket victory with 169 deliveries remaining.
Rahul’s half century came off 58 balls with 4 fours and a six. Eventually he remained unbeaten after scoring 63* runs off 70 deliveries with 4 fours and 2 sixes.
The debutant Fazal brought up his maiden half-century in 58 deliveries aided by 6 fours and a six.
Occupying the crease for 99 minutes, facing 61 deliveries Faizal remained unbeaten on a well made 55* runs studded with 7 fours and a six.
This innings would have definitely given a lot of confidence to Fazal and he has clearly made his presence felt.
Even though the opposition was not a very tough one, but then creating an impression on debut is always note-worthy.
Whether he would get further opportunities against tougher opposition is something which only time can tell, but Fazal has proven, beyond doubt, that he would not be overawed by the situation of playing at international level and given the opportunity to play, would definitely deliver.
