Afridi’s fiery knocks of 34 not out and 59 against India and Bangladesh respectively lifted Pakistan from difficult situations into the final of the Asia Cup. PHOTO: AFP
Afridi’s fiery knocks of 34 not out and 59 against India and Bangladesh respectively lifted Pakistan from difficult situations into the final of the Asia Cup.
Just a week after Saturday’s final, the men in green will ply their trade in the global tournament.
Misbahul Haq, who will not be a part of the team in the World Twenty20, said after the Bangladesh match on Tuesday that Afridi’s current form will be crucial for the team in the event.
“Afridi is our main player and his confidence and form is the biggest plus for the team,” said the Test and ODI captain.
He added that the all-rounder, due to his golden run, can be utilised in any batting order, depending on the situation.
Former head coach Mohsin Khan agreed that the senior cricketer’s form was a huge positive.
“Afridi is a kind of a player who can demolish any opposition single-handedly,” the former Test opener told The Express Tribune.
“The kind of aggression he has in his batting and bowling is rare. I am hopeful that he will continue his good form in the Asia Cup final as well as in the World Twenty20.”
‘Kudos to Alam’
Meanwhile, Mohsin also praised left-handed Fawad Alam who scored 74 runs in the record chase of 327 against Bangladesh.
“Fawad deserves praise for his outstanding knock,” said Mohsin.
“It isn’t easy to play such an innings on return to international cricket after a long time. We must praise his will power.”
The former coach also commended the approach of openers Ahmed Shahzad and Mohammad Hafeez.
“Shahzad proved again that he has the ability to play a long innings. Hafeez also played an important knock.”
However, Mohsin warned Pakistan to improve the fielding for the final.
“Our batting and bowling performance is good but we need to avoid mistakes in fielding. Sri Lanka are tough opponents and the team will have to work hard against them.”
He further pointed that fast bowler Umar Gul who returned after a prolong injury could have been rested against Bangladesh.
“The team is already without Mohammad Irfan. We could have used Anwar Ali or Bilawal Bhatti in place of Gul.”
Published in The Express Tribune, March 6th, 2014.
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