Pakistan’s campaign in the 2016 ICC World T20 was off and running after a comprehensive victory over Bangladesh at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Pakistan looked like a completely different side to the one witnessed in the Asia Cup and the men in green played with an aggressive and a clear mindset.
Skipper Shahid Afridi led from the front as his 19 ball knock of 49 powered Pakistan to a dominant total. Afridi followed it up with two crucial wickets to wrap up the formalities and took Pakistan to victory by 55 runs. Afridi was named the Man of the Match for his efforts and stated that he was hungry to perform and excel.
“My performances play a key role, but I was hungry. I was keen to perform well for my country in this event,” said Afridi. “Its a big event as captain, as a senior player, I had to lead by example. I spoke to the coach and he said okay. Afridi also spoke about giving chances to other batsmen and praised the top order for their efforts.
“I love to give chances to the rest of the batsmen, but sometimes. I think from the last two, three series, the batsman struggled to find runs. First, six overs was important and Hafeez and Shehzad did very well. That was what we missed in the batting, the partnerships. Openers are very important, Shehzad and even Sharjeel can be very attacking too, If he stays first six overs, the team will have 50-60. I expect them to perform well, as a captain,” he said.
“I don’t want to talk about the past, we should learn from our mistakes and India have been playing good cricket, even with the last loss. Captaincy is not an easy job, but when the team gives you 100 percent, I enjoy it. People expect me to bat and ball as well and I enjoy both,” Afridi concluded.