As the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 is set to begin in just a few days in the UAE and Oman, former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi recalled the Men in Green’s “unforgettable” title triumph in the 2009 T20 World Cup.
The Pakistani team had defeated Sri Lanka by 8 wickets in the final of the ICC T20 World Cup to win their maiden trophy at Lord’s in 2009 with Afridi being named Player of the Match.
Well, all eyes are on the mega-clash in Dubai between the arch-rivals India and Pakistan on October 24 in the T20 World Cup 2021, and Afridi said the Pakistan team is an unpredictable team and can surprise any team in the world and warned the teams not to underestimate the young team.
Afridi stated as reported by AFP: “We had that issue of the Sri Lanka attacks on our minds. The whole nation was disappointed and frustrated, so that win was very much needed. The win gave the whole nation happiness and some unforgettable moments. This is Pakistan cricket for you, never ever a dull day. Pakistan can surprise any team in the world. Rule them out at your peril.”
He further recalled, “Pakistan gave the best entertainment in the first T20 World Cup. We lost to India in the group match after a bowl-out, which was something very new for us. Misbah-ul-Haq brought Pakistan into the game but then we lost by the barest of margins.”
The legendary all-rounder said the T20 format “suits Pakistan's character” and is confident that the national team can once again surprise the world cricket in the UAE.
Afridi signed off by saying, “We have the talent, approach, and aggression required for this rapid format. It is a format that is loved throughout Pakistan. We won against every team and then every team adopted that style. Bowling is now full of variety and new batting techniques have been developed. The current Pakistan team is very talented although they lack experienced players. But, as we all know, never underestimate a Pakistan team!”
(With AFP Inputs)
