King Afridi drags Pakistan across the line

With lethal fast-bowling Akhtar’s reply to his criticis was brutal as he reached speeds he was once renowned for.

COLOMBO: Pakistan beat a powerful Sri Lankan side for their second World Cup win, sending out an ominous statement of intent to their rivals as Bangalore geared up for the India-England showdown.

A sell-out crowd of 35,000 packed the R Premadasa stadium in Colombo to witness the much-anticipated Group A clash between the 1992 winners Pakistan and 1996 champions Sri Lanka, who both enjoyed convincing opening victories.

The crucial 11-run win has proved that nobody can write off Pakistan’s chances in the World Cup, said captain Shahid Afridi in a post-match press conference.

“I always believe that Pakistan have the potential and today I can say we are one of the favourites,” said the captain who became the first Pakistan spinner to reach 300 wickets in One-Day Internationals.

“Everybody knows beating Sri Lanka on their ground is one of the toughest job sas they have become a very tough side, especially at home. No doubt it is a huge victory and it will help us in the rest of the tournament as the players must have gained a lot of confidence.”

Improve fielding or pack your bags, team told

The captain, however, warned the team to improve their fielding for the future following disasters that almost let Sri Lanka sneak past the finish line.

“We missed easy chances and that was really strange as well as disappointing. We need to improve our fielding as the tournament will get tougher and tougher. If we fail to improve, then we’ll probably be heading back to Pakistan very soon.”

Kamran Akmal was guilty of missing two easy stumpings off left-armer spinner Abdul Rehman with the hosts’ captain Kumar Sangakkara the beneficiary. Rehman also dropped a sitter just outside the circle while Younus Khan missed one running back at short third-man.

“After taking four quick wickets, we became a bit relaxed and that’s something we can’t afford to do.”

The captain, however, prasied the senior members of team for carrying Pakistan to a total the bowlers just about managed to defend.

“I always say that seniors are very important apart from the captain. I’m very happy the way Younus, Misbah and Shoaib Akhtar are performing, especially how the fast-bowler is bowling with the new ball.”

Afridi, who recorded Pakistan’s best bowling figures of five for 16 in all World Cup matches in the 205-run win against Kenya in the team’s tournament opener, reached his personal landmark in his 314th match by dismissing Sangakkara. Needless to say, the captain was more than a happy man.

“I wanted to make a name as an all-rounder and am delighted to have achieved that. Bowling remains my priority and I’m looking forward to performing consistently for my team.” (With additional input from AFP)

Team not worried by Shiv Sena

Pakistan remain hopeful that the ICC would ensure a clean path to Mumbai, amid warnings by Shiv Sena, if they reach the World Cup final scheduled to be played in the Indian metropolis on April 2.

Bal Thackeray, leader of the Shiv Sena, said he would not allow Pakistan to play in India, threatening to dig up the pitch and pour oil on it if Pakistan attempt to play at the venue. The team was issued Indian visas yesterday as it planned for a possible quarter-final, semi-final and final in India.

“It’s a long way to the final and right now, it’s not an issue,” said Pakistan manager Intikhab Alam. “We’re not concerned as we’re playing an ICC tournament and will follow what the governing body decides. Hopefully the ICC will make things clear as we’re ready to play at any venue.”

Published in The Express Tribune, February 27^th, 2011.