Sports activities
pti-Pti
New Delhi, Feb 5 (PTI) Former Pakistani skipper Wasim Akram has backed the PCB’s resolution to call Shahid Afridias captain for the upcoming World Cup, saying the versatile 30-year-old is the suitable man to guide the nation within the mega-event.
“The Pakistani board made the right choice in choosing Afridi as skipper. Although I delayed the decision for so long, I am happy that they finally chose the most capable man for the job,” Akram mentioned.
“Afridi has been leading the team for some time and has understood the nuances of captaining. In cricket it takes one or two years to perfect the art of captaining and that’s why I think Afridi was the best option available” , added the previous participant. .
Whereas hypothesis over who would lead Pakistan to the World Cup was lastly dropped, Akram believed the workforce would now be capable to face the event with renewed confidence.
Fly-half Ahmed Shehzad, who scored a clean century within the fifth ODI in opposition to New Zealand, acquired wealthy reward from the previous legend who felt the 19-year-old wouldn’t be intimidated by the chance.
“Shehzad played sensational cricket. I know this kid. He’s a real fearless character who doesn’t feel so much pressure. I think he’s definitely one to watch. His idea of defense is to attack and he will be consistent and deadly on sub-continent tracks,” Akram mentioned, as quoted by espnstar.com.
Talking of different gamers who could make a distinction, Akram felt veterans Abdur Razzaq and Shoaib Akhtar would play key roles.
“I think Razzaq’s goal for the World Cup should be to become the man of the tournament. He’s one of the best all-rounders and is definitely a real game-winner.
“He has to focus a bit on his bowling and on the pitch, however his explosiveness with the bat, decrease down the order, is unmatched in world cricket. He is a type of uncommon individuals who can crush a cost runs on only a few balls, altering the sport instantly,” Akram said.
“Umar Gul would be the foremost pitcher but when Akhtar stays match and wholesome he can nonetheless make a distinction,” he mentioned. PTIAH
Article first revealed: Tuesday, February 8, 2011, 3:15 a.m. [IST]