Confidence the ingredient behind my success: Afridi

Former captain eyes series-win against England next month

KARACHI: Dealing confidently with the pressure that accompanied his return to international cricket was the ingredient behind Shahid Afridi’s man-of-the-series show against Sri Lanka, according to the former captain himself.

Afridi returned to Pakistan on Wednesday night after the UAE and Bangladesh tour — his first series since reversing his conditional retirement.

“There was a lot of pressure on me to perform but I was very confident,” he said. “Performing after a long period of crisis is very important for me as an individual. But more importantly, I am happy with the performance because it helped Pakistan win both series.”

Afridi finished the year with 45 wickets in One-Day Internationals, three less than Sri Lanka’s Lasith Malinga, but was far from disappointed on losing out to the right-arm fast-bowler.

“I have never concentrated on rankings. I am satisfied with my performance the way it is. I’m more keen to improve my batting.”

All-rounder praises Mohsin as coach

The former captain put his weight behind Mohsin Khan, who was appointed for an interim period to replace Waqar Younis, given Pakistan’s track record since the former batsman took over.

“Mohsin has gelled the team well. He has lifted the captain’s spirit and supported me as well on my comeback. The current team atmosphere is great and every player is enjoying what he’s doing. Appointing a new coach is purely PCB’s decision but Mohsin is performing well as a coach.”

‘England series a real test’

Afridi added that although Pakistan’s recent run was a huge boost for the team – it has won six of their last ODI series – wins against top teams like England and Australia will give real joy to the side.

“Our morale is in great shape with the string of victories but wins against Australia and England will be delightful. Our forthcoming series against England will be the real test for
the team.”

Published in The Express Tribune, December 9^th, 2011.