The unaging cricket icon Shahid Afridi has been around since 1996 and has played for almost every T20 league in recent times across the world. One of the premier names in world cricket, the former Pakistani captain is known for his longevity in the game.
Currently part of the Lanka Premier League (LPL 2020), Shahid Afridi was part of the inaugural edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008 when he was bought by Deccan Chargers and appeared for the franchise in the sole season.
"Oh yes! I have some good memories of that time, played for Deccan Chargers and we had a good team back then. Adam Gilchrist was the captain and there were VVS Laxman, Rohit Sharma, and Andrew Symonds. But for some reason we couldn't live up to the expectations of the fans in that season," he recalled.
The Deccan Chargers won the IPL in 2009 when it was held in South Africa, but by then Pakistani cricketers were barred from taking part in IPL auctions, in the aftermath of the 26/11 terrorist attacks in Mumbai in 2008. Since then, no Pakistani player, barring Azhar Mahmood, who played for Kings XI Punjab after gaining British citizenship, has played in the IPL.
Afridi also agreed with the statement given by former Pakistani captain and KKR bowling coach Wasim Akram, that Pakistanis should play in IPL and Indians should participate in the PSL.
"I completely agree to what Wasim bhai said, and that must be the sentiment of many on either side of the border. It will be a really big step forward for cricket and cricketers of both countries if that happens," Afridi said.
Afridi has had his altercations with Indian cricketers on social media, but when asked whether it plays a role in ruining bonds, he said, “I have huge respect for all of them and I also shared a very good rapport on and off the field with them for a long time. We have not met or talked recently but I don't think it has changed. I sincerely don't want to comment on what goes on in social media.”
Meanwhile, he praised the Sri Lankan government for organizing the LPL 2020, despite the threat of COVID-19 and multiple postponements over the previous months.
"Hats off to the Sri Lankan government, the Sri Lankan Cricket (SLC) board, and the Innovative Production Group (IPG) for putting this event in place. I am sure, it was difficult, but that was the right thing to do for the fans, the game, and for the people of Sri Lanka," he said.
The talisman makes it clear that he is open to mentoring, but coaching is not something he has given a thought as he is still enjoying playing the game.
LPL 2020: WATCH - Shahid Afridi fired-up after Naveen-Ul-Haq and Mohammad Amir's heated exchange
"I haven't thought about taking up coaching as a full-time job yet because there are still some people who want to see me play. And right now, I am also enjoying playing the game as much as I did when I played for my country.
As far as mentoring the youngsters are concerned, I am always available for anyone who comes up to me for advice. And despite my 'own unorthodox style' a lot of young cricketers come seeking advice when I play for different franchises," he pointed.
Afridi also said that LPL is a new league, but it is an important tournament for the growth of the game in the island nation. He further mentioned that it will help the young talent in the country grow and he wants to contribute in any way possible to give something back to the game.
(ANI inputs)
