Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi will turn up as icon player for a new team Qalandars in the next edition of Abu Dhabi T10, starting November 14.
Afridi, who has been featuring in various T20 leagues across the globe after his retirement, recently spoke to Gulf News and opened up about his preparation fitness.
“I wouldn’t have been here if I cannot play in this format. I am fit and enjoying playing. I will give my best, sometimes I am successful, sometimes I am not,” Afridi said.
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Earlier this month, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced Misbah ul Haq as national team's head coach cum chief selector for a three-year-long term.
Misbah's appointment in a rare of its kind duel role was made in line with PCB’s commitment to ensure transparency, accountability and job clarity at all levels.
He pipped the likes of Dean Jones, Mohsin Khan and Courtney Walsh to secure this job after being unanimously chosen by five-member panel that comprising Intikhab Alam, Bazid Khan, Asad Ali Khan, Wasim Khan and Zakir Khan.
Commenting on Misbah’s appointment, Afridi said: “Misbah has a huge responsibility now and he has to deliver. I sincerely feel that the changes that have been brought about in Pakistan cricket should run for two to three years. Misbah would need at least three years to get the team in order.”
Asked if he would like to play the same role in the future, the former Pakistan captain said: “I don’t have the temperament to coach the national team. Moreover, I am fit as ever so my focus is on playing cricket right now and try and give my best for the team.”
However, Afridi was quick to add that he would like to start his coaching stint by grooming younger age group players and help them improve their mental aspect of the game.
“I would be interested in coaching young boys under 18 and 19. It is that age they need coaching. If I tell my story to a young aspiring cricketer, especially on how I braved the pressure situations in tough games. This way I can pass on my experience to them. Not only will they be motivated but also they will be learning a lot of new things that will help them to become a good cricketer,” he concluded.
