Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has shared key advice for fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi ahead of the upcoming India clash. He urged the left-arm pacer to adapt his bowling plans according to pitch conditions.
Speaking on a television programme, Afridi emphasized that Shaheen should focus on reading the surface rather than seeking early breakthroughs with the new ball.
“Shaheen is no longer a young bowler,” Afridi said. “He has experience now. At this stage, he should bowl by understanding the pitch, not just chasing wickets in the first two overs.”
Afridi stressed that line, length, and building pressure should be central to Shaheen’s strategy, especially on batting-friendly tracks common in modern white-ball cricket.
He suggested that Shaheen Shah Afridi control the run flow and unsettle batters before attempting aggressive wicket-taking deliveries. “In today’s cricket, most pitches favour batters. A fast bowler has to rely on planning, skills, and consistency. Matches aren’t decided in the first two overs alone,” Afridi added.
Shahid Afridi highlighted Shaheen’s performance during Pakistan’s recent series against Australia as an example of tactical maturity. The left-arm pacer used patience and variation to out-think batters, rather than forcing the issue early on.
“In that series, Shaheen showed great intelligence,” Afridi said. “He bowled some deliveries wide outside off stump to make the batter comfortable, then suddenly brought one back in to take the wicket. These are the skills he needs to show again and again.”
Afridi stressed that consistency in such execution will distinguish Shaheen Shah Afridi from other fast bowlers on the international stage.
With flatter pitches, stronger bats, and aggressive batting, Afridi believes fast bowlers must think beyond raw pace. “A match is played over 20 or 50 overs, not just at the start. You have to create wicket-taking chances throughout the game,” he said.
Afridi concluded that mastering these skills will be crucial for Pakistan’s success in the upcoming India clash and other high-pressure matches.
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