Pakistan pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi has been struggling to perform well in the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. In the two matches he has played so far, Afridi has only managed to pick up a couple of wickets at an average of 51.5.
Pakistan is now set to face their arch-rivals India in match number 12 of the World Cup at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Saturday. Former Pakistani fast bowling legend and captain Waqar Younis has made a significant statement ahead of this highly anticipated clash. Younis believes that Shaheen Shah Afridi is currently not bowling well.
During a conversation on Jio Cinema’s daily show ‘#AAKASHVANI’, Younis discussed Pakistan’s form leading up to the match against India. He mentioned that while Pakistan’s batting has traditionally been considered the weaker link, their bowling has always been their strength. However, Younis feels that the situation has reversed recently, and Pakistan’s bowling has some issues that need to be addressed. He specifically pointed out that Afridi is struggling with his form and rhythm since the Asia Cup game in Kandy, raising concerns about his performance.
Younis also expressed his thoughts on Babar Azam’s lack of big scores against India and his inconsistency as a captain. He believes that for Azam to establish himself as a top player, he needs to perform well against strong teams like India and also showcase good leadership skills. Younis emphasized that Azam’s captaincy was often supported by breakthroughs from bowlers like Shaheen, Shadab, and Haris. However, with the bowlers not delivering consistently, Azam’s captaincy will now be tested, and questions will be raised.
On the other hand, Babar Azam, the captain of the Pakistan team, does not seem to be concerned about Afridi’s current form before the crucial match against India. Azam expressed his confidence in Afridi’s abilities, stating that he believes Afridi is the best bowler and a champion performer. Azam and the team have full faith in Afridi’s skills, and they believe that he will bounce back and deliver a strong performance, regardless of not picking up wickets in a couple of matches.
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