High Wycombe CC youngster Saif Zaib hit a superb 88 to inspire England under-17s to victory in their final match of a three game series against Pakistan in Dubai on Sunday.

The 16-year-old’s run-a-ball knock was the highest by any player in the one-day international series and took his country to a 70-run triumph.

Zaib had managed scores of 14 and 18 not out in the first two games in the UAE as Pakistan won both matches to secure the series win with a game to spare.

England salvaged some pride thanks to the Northants player’s innings, however, with Zaib’s putting on 150 with Martin Andersson for the fourth wicket, which was a particular highlight for head coach Iain Brunnschweiler.

“Saif Zaib and Martin Andersson's partnership was absolutely superb. Both players knew it was going to be tough up front and they needed to play strong shots in order to get in, whilst still being positive,” he said.

“Once they had done the hard work, they both played intelligently and expanded their scoring options accordingly.”

Saif’s father, Sajid, said he was “incredibly proud” of his son after watching him put Pakistan to the sword at the Dubai Sports City complex with a knock which included nine fours and two sixes.

He said: “My brother and I travelled from England to watch him and his grandfather travelled from Pakistan to watch him as we couldn't miss this amazing opportunity.

“Whichever path is written for him nobody can take away him having represented his country and playing with the three lions on his shirt.”

His father also feels the opportunity to play for his country at international level will aid his development as he prepares for the upcoming season with both High Wycombe and Northants.

“This experience has been priceless,” he explained. “Not only for Saif to be considered to play for his country but also to be able to perform at this level will give him great confidence leading into the season.

“The experience of playing against another international side, which always perform well at junior levels and are the current u19 World Cup runners-up, is brilliant. “Northants coaches have been incredibly supportive and fully backed his ability. High Wycombe CC have also fast tracked him into the senior teams.”