Lahore 12 August : Pakistan pace spearhead Shaheen Afridi is likely to be resting for some of games in the upcoming ODI series of three matches against the Netherlands that is an integral part of the Super League fixtures. Pakistan captain Babar Azam indicated that for the long-term health of the team and the left-armer, it was crucial to put off the bowler who is 22 years old.Pakistan will require a fully fit Afridi for the famous Asia Cup tournament in the UAE and the ICC T20 World Cup in Australia in October.
“We’re taking a long-term look at the long-term impact on his (Afridi’s) fitness level and health.We hope he can play a match against Netherlands in good health and fit to play in the Asia Cup,” said Azam.
Pakistan’s squads for both the Asia Cup and the Netherlands tour shocked many when the speedy Hasan Ali was left out, with selectors preferring Naseem Shah, Shahnawaz Dahani, Haris Rauf and Mohammad Wasim.Shaheen has been suffering from an injury to his knee, but she was included in both squads.
Babar said Hasan could get back to his best in cricket at home.
“Our bench strength for fast-bowling is outstanding.They’ve got an opportunity to show their skills.This is the way to expand your pool of talent.” Azam was quoted as saying by ICC.
“Yes it is true that he’s (Hazan Ali) not in form but it’s not as if he needs to show anything.Cricket is in the domestic calendar.He’ll take part and try to make a comeback, hopefully.”
Pakistan are knocking at the door in T20I cricket, hammering India by 10 wickets in the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE and then falling to Matthew Wade semifinal pyrotechnics in Dubai.
Babar believes that the team is capable of be victorious in both the Asia Cup and the T20 World Cup.”We have eleven Trump cards.Each of them could be match-winners on the day they are played.I believe in each of them, bowlers or batters.
“The team was announced following talks with everyone.We had a meeting with the chief selector and coach, and did what was right for Pakistan.There are matches scheduled immediately after Netherlands which means it’s unlikely there will be enough time to make changes.”
Pakistan’s ODI series with the Netherlands begins on the 16th of August, with all three matches at Hazelaarweg in Rotterdam.”There are significant Super League points at stake which we must not afford to lose,” Babar stressed.
“If things go wrong when we start fielding young players, we’ll face criticism, too.Everyone will not be pleased with our choices however, we must do what is most beneficial to protect Pakistan cricket.”
Fixtures (three-match ODI series)
August 16 18, 18 and 21 in Rotterdam
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