Cardiff: Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed insisted he always believed his side could turn their fortunes around after they reached the Champions Trophy final with a dominant eight-wicket win over England in Cardiff.
Pakistan pace bowler Hasan Ali took three wickets as Pakistan dismissed England, the only unbeaten team left in the tournament, for a mere 211.
In marked contrast to their nail-biting chase in a three-wicket, virtual quarter-final, win over Sri Lanka in Cardiff on Monday, Pakistan then cruised to a total of 215 for two with a mammoth 77 balls to spare.
"It is a cause of great pride and happiness for myself and for the entire Pakistan nation," said Sarfraz after the semi-final triumph.
"It was a team no one gave a chance, neither here nor back home," added the 30-year-old wicket-keeper, whose 61 not out was key to the victory over Sri Lanka.
"No one thought we'd reach the final."
Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur said before the semi-final that if his side played their "best game" they could "put pressure" on England.
And they did so in style, despite being without injured left-arm quick Mohammad Amir because of a back spasm.
"Today was a perfect performance from all departments," said Azhar.
"The bowlers did extremely well and got us in a very good position."
