'Match was in hands': Shaheen Afridi remarks after match with India washed out | Bat N Ball

 In a recent conversation, the Pakistani pace bowler Shaheen Afridi conveyed his conviction that if the unfortunate interference of rain had not disrupted the Asia Cup clash between Pakistan and India on Saturday, Pakistan would have undoubtedly emerged as the victors. He gracefully acknowledged that the whims of weather lay beyond their control and mourned the untimely cancellation of the match.

Afridi highlighted Pakistan's dominant start to the match, during which they were able to take two crucial wickets, with Hardik Pandya's dismissal having particularly significant ramifications. He praised the team's overall effort throughout the innings.

In discussing his bowling strategy, Afridi divulged his earnest attempts to manipulate the swing of the cricket ball, albeit not consistently hitting the desired areas. He attributed the harmonious blend of in-swing and out-swing deliveries as pivotal to his success in claiming the initial two wickets. Furthermore, he delved into the team's tactical approach, aimed at accumulating dot balls to exert relentless pressure on the Indian contingent.

The fall of Virat Kohli's wicket was singled out as the most pivotal moment, given his stature as a lynchpin in India's batting lineup. Afridi emphasized the fact that cricket is still a distinctly team-oriented sport, though, and he praised the entire group for their tireless efforts.

He endorsed Mickey Arthur, the director of Pakistan's cricket team, who argues that quick bowlers are crucial to winning championship matches. 

He meticulously expounded upon the roles played by himself, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah within the team's bowling arsenal.

Naseem Shah, another luminary amongst the pace bowlers, also shared his insights on competing against India. He astutely remarked on the nuanced disparities between T20 and ODI encounters against India, emphasizing the paramount need for patience in the latter format.

Naseem extolled the noteworthy performances of his fellow teammates, with particular commendation directed towards Shaheen Afridi's early bowling exploits and Haris Rauf's substantial contributions.

Both cricket players had a tangible sense of excitement about playing on the revered Lahore grounds, where they had polished their abilities since they were little. They had optimistic expectations of winning over ardent supporters.

The article also discuss the information concerning the forthcoming Pakistan-India matchups in the Asia Cup 2023 and the upcoming ICC World Cup 2023.

To encapsulate, here is a concise recapitulation of the salient points articulated by Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah during their discourse:

Firm conviction in Pakistan's potential victory had rain not intervened.

Acknowledgment of the squad's potent initiation and pivotal wicket acquisitions.

Emphasis on the collaborative ethos of cricket and the significance of Virat Kohli's dismissal.

Concurrence with Mickey Arthur's perspective on the paramount role of fast bowlers.

Keen anticipation of playing in Lahore, their cricketing alma mater, and basking in fan support.

Detailed insight into the schedule of upcoming Pakistan-India encounters and the ICC World Cup 2023.

Scheduled Matches:

September 10 – Asia Cup Super Four - Colombo - 2:30pm (PST)

September 17 – Asia Cup Final - Colombo - 2:30pm (PST)

October 14 – ICC World Cup 2023 – Ahmedabad – 1:30pm (PST)

Tags:

#Shaheen Shah Afridi #Haris Rauf #asia cup 2023 #Naseem Shah #Mickey Arthur #Virat Kohli