White-ball cricket’s box office trailblazer Shahid Afridi believes the “unpredictable” Pakistan can embody the spirit of 2009 and win a second T20 World Cup.
Afridi was man of the match 12 years ago in the tournament’s seven-run semi-final victory over South Africa, where he scored 51.
He then starred again in an eight-wicket loss against Sri Lanka in the final at Lord’s, where he scored an unbeaten 54.
Pakistan’s victory came just three months after the terror attack on the Sri Lanka team in Lahore, an incident that brought international cricket to a halt in the country.
Afridi said, ‘Sri Lanka attack issue was on our mind’ AFP.
“The whole country was disappointed and disappointed so there was a great need for victory.
“The victory brought happiness and some unforgettable moments to the entire nation.” Afridi famously exploded in 1996 when he broke the record for the fastest century in ODI cricket to reach his century in 37 balls.
This was a record which stood till 2014.
Afridi, who has played 99 T20 Internationals for Pakistan, feels the recent setbacks may re-motivate Babar Azam’s team in the 2021 T20 show.
A month before the mega-event, head coach Misbah-ul-Haq and bowling coach Waqar Younis resignedApparently the new board chairman Rameez Raja will be sacked anyway.
New Zealand again Abandoned His tour of the country a few minutes before the first ODI in Rawalpindi.
Three days later, England too Has taken back Its men’s and women’s teams toured Pakistan.
“It’s Pakistan cricket for you, never a dull day,” Afridi said.
He said, ‘Pakistan can surprise any team in the world. Take them out at your own risk.” In his 22-year international career, Afridi was at the center of Pakistan’s “topsy-turvy” ride in limited-overs cricket.
heartbreak and drama
Afridi took 12 wickets in Pakistan’s race to reach the final in the inaugural Twenty20 World Cup in South Africa in 2007, earning him the player of the tournament award.
Pakistan, however, lost twice against arch-rivals India – including the final.
“Pakistan gave the best of entertainment in the first T20 World Cup,” Afridi insisted.
“We lost to India in a one-on-one group match” outside the bowl, which was something new for us.”
Pakistan again lost in the final to Misbah-ul-Haq fall on a sudden shot On the third ball of the last over, only six runs were needed to win.
“Misbah brought Pakistan into the game but then we lost by the narrowest margin,” Afridi said.
The then champions Pakistan under the leadership of Afridi Lost Australia registered an unexpected victory when Michael Hussey scored 39 runs in the last two overs in the semi-finals of the 2010 edition in the Caribbean.
Afridi said, ‘T20 suits our character. “We have the talent, approach and aggression required for this fast format.
“It is a format that is loved across Pakistan. We won against every team and then every team adopted that style.
“Bowling is now full of variety and new batting techniques have evolved.” Afridi insisted that Pakistan could once again create some surprises in the UAE.
“The current Pakistan team is very talented though they lack experienced players. But, as we all know, never underestimate the Pakistan team! “