Pakistan failed to fire at the Asia Cup but skipper Shahid Afridi believes his side can make amends at the upcoming World T20. In a chat with media, Afridi spoke about his team's chances and more.
“Look, we made too many mistakes in this competition. Our batting hasn’t fired and you can’t win matches if you lose quick wickets right at the start of play. The middle-order and our bowling did keep us in the hunt, especially in matches against Bangladesh and India, but it wasn’t enough. I still believe we have the team to go the distance (in T20 World Cup). It is a format where our boys have done well. We will have to do something special to make a mark because we are in a tough group with the likes of India, Australia and New Zealand.”
Especially India has had the upper hand over Pakistan in recent years. Being a part of the many India-Pakistan clashes over the years the all-rounder said, “I believe India have been able to raise their game in crucial junctures, which we haven’t. In the last game against India, we failed to read the pitch and made too many errors that cost us the game.
Besides this Afridi praised the performances of Virat Kohli who has been in prolific form off late. About his comparisons with the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, the Pakistan skipper opined, “I have said this before too no one should be compared to Sachin Tendulkar. He has been a great role model for millions of Indians and for those who follow the sport across the world. Virat has been a champion player too. He has been consistent over the years and his aggressive nature is great for the game. Both are fantastic cricketers and I wouldn’t put one above other.”
