Shahid Afridi’s cocky response to question on fitness

Former T20I captain says he will retire on his own terms rather than allowing anyone to throw him out

Former Pakistan T20I captain Shahid Afridi gave a cocky response to questions regarding his fitness by the local media on Friday.

During an exhibition match, the legendary all-rounder was asked about his fitness by a journalist, and his reply reply was mischievous, "I can still handle 10 guys like you alone.”

Afridi was further pressed to comment on his chances of returning to the national team, to which he said he will make a comeback soon after performing in domestic and county cricket.

Afridi with his famous celebration. PHOTO: AFP

“I am currently focusing on performing in domestic and county cricket,” he said. “However, when I feel I cannot play anymore, I will retire on my own terms rather than allowing anyone to throw me out.”

After confirming his availability for the team at any given day, Afridi added that media should not pressurise ODI captain Azhar Ali even after poor performances by the 50-over side.

Afridi cuts during a 2015 World Cup match. PHOTO: AFP

“Azhar was not able to deliver in the series against England but media should also refrain from heaping further pressure on him,” said Afridi. “Sarfraz [Ahmed] did exceptionally well as a captain in the one-off T20I against England but he should be given time to prove himself an asset in the long run. He was aggressive in his captaincy and we need that.”

The 36-year-old also criticised the media for labelling cricketers on the basis of just one good or bad performance.

“Our media makes a hero out of a player on the basis of just one performance and at times they pull down a senior player with 20+ years of experience after one match or one series,” he said.