Asad Shafiq wants ODI, T20I comebacks

Right-hand batsman says he tries to perform in all formats of the game

Pakistan right-hand batsman Asad Shafiq has expressed his desire to represent the country in ODIs and T20Is as well.

Shafiq was the man-of-the-match in the first semi-final of the on-going National T20 Cup where Karachi Whites beat Peshawar courtesy his unbeaten 92 off 55 balls.

“We felt that if we had a good start then it will help the middle order but luckily we were able to reach the target with eight wickets remaining,” said Shafiq. “I always try to perform in all formats of the game and I am glad to do so in the shortest format today. I am trying to comeback in national ODI and T20I teams again.”

Karachi captain Akbarur Rehman lauded Shafiq’s performance which helped the team to reach the final of the tournament. “We also had the experienced Shafiq to guide us,” he said.

Karachi Whites will face Karachi Blues in the final of the tournament after the latter beat Lahore Whites by nine wickets in the second semi-final on Thursday.

Mickey all-praise for Shafiq

Pakistan head coach Mickey Arthur earlier on Wednesday said middle-order batsman Asad Shafiq is one player in the national team who reminds him of Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar.

“Technically, Asad Shafiq is our best batsman,” said Arthur while talking to ESPNcricinfo. “When he gets forward he is sideways on. Look at him: short, balanced, punches well off the front foot, cuts exceptionally well. At times I could almost visualise Sachin Tendulkar. That is high praise, and I have told him that.”

When asked if he is going to promote Shafiq up the order, Mickey said: “Technically your best player should be batting at No. 3. I was really impressed with Asad, who really wanted the opportunity to bat up the order. He batted up the order at The Oval after getting a pair in Birmingham. And then got a hundred, and that says so much for his temperament and skill.”