Shahid Afridi is a legend of the game: Sohail Tanvir

Left-arm pacer expresses his happiness on the emotional return of cricket in Pakistan

KARACHI: Pakistan left-arm pacer Sohail Tanvir, in an interview to Caribbean Premier League Twenty20 (CPLT20) website, said that playing with a 'legend of the game' Shahid Afridi is an exciting opportunity.

Sohail, who scored the fastest fifty of the CPLT20 for St Lucia Zouks in the 2014 tournament, will be representing debutants, the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots in this year's event.

The 30-year-old was happy that he will have a Pakistani legend, Afridi, playing alongside him for the Patriots.

"He is a legend of the game. I’m really excited and happy that he is part of the team," said Sohail.

"I’ve played a lot of cricket with Shahid, he’s a game-changer with bat and ball and we needed someone like him."

Sohail further talked about the emotional return of cricket in Pakistan.

"It’s great," said Sohail. "Nobody can describe the emotions and what it means to us as the people of Pakistan that we’ve played international cricket at home for the first time since 2009."

"It was really great watching the games on TV and I’m sure it was great for the players playing in front of their friends and family. I’m hoping this will continue and teams will play more series now."

Moreover, he said he believes the Patriots can win the title if they can execute their skills properly.

"We should believe that we can do well and win the tournament," he said.

"We have a good squad that is well balanced. We have good batters, some good bowlers and good all-rounders. As long as we execute our skills we have a good chance."

In a message for the Pakistani cricket fans, he said: "Definitely support the Patriots when you see me and Afridi playing together. The people of Pakistan are a cricket-loving nation and it’s great to get all the messages of support from home."