Tri-nation series: Shaheen backs young players
Sri Lanka and England captains confident ahead of tri-nation series
Pakistan captain Shaheen Afridi has expressed confidence in the team’s batting depth and preparations for the upcoming tri-nation series, saying the side has the ability to chase targets of 350 or even 400 runs.
Speaking at a press conference at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Shaheen said Pakistan would adapt its approach to match conditions while keeping its long-term focus on the World Cup.
“We are capable of chasing down targets of 350 or 400 runs,” he said, adding that the team had an experienced batting order and would play according to the demands of the conditions.
Shaheen said Pakistan had been working to build its ODI team over the past four series and had tried to prepare pitches in line with the requirements of the upcoming global tournament.
Babar Azam’s experience valuable for Pakistan
Shaheen described former captain Babar Azam as the backbone of the Pakistan team and said his experience remained valuable to the squad.
“There is no pressure on Babar Azam; he is a key player,” Shaheen said, noting that Babar had consistently scored runs for Pakistan.
The captain said Babar’s five-year stint as skipper had given him considerable leadership experience and that younger players could learn from him.
Young players to receive opportunities
Shaheen said young players would be introduced to the national team gradually, allowing them to develop and establish themselves.
He also highlighted the importance of all-round contributions, saying he wanted to perform for Pakistan in batting, bowling and fielding.
On Saim Ayub, Shaheen said the left-arm spinner’s bowling could be particularly useful in ODIs, where his contribution would add another option to the attack.
Salman Ali Agha praised after triple century
Shaheen praised Salman Ali Agha, describing him as a good cricketer who understood his role in the team.
He also referred to Salman’s recent triple century in first-class cricket, saying the batter had been performing well.
Team unity and World Cup preparations
Shaheen said there was strong cohesion within the squad, with players focused on winning matches and bringing happiness to supporters.
He added that Pakistan had performed well in T20 cricket but needed to continue developing its ODI setup ahead of the World Cup.
“The tri-nation series is quite important for us,” he said, stressing that the team would make every effort to perform well in the tournament.
Sri Lanka and England captains confident
Sri Lanka captain Kusal Mendis said the team was ready for the tri-nation series and that the inclusion of experienced players in the ODI squad would be beneficial. He added that the team’s performance in the final T20 match had boosted morale.
England captain Harry Brook also expressed confidence ahead of the competition, saying he understood playing conditions in Pakistan and welcomed the challenge of facing two strong teams.
Brook described Pakistan as a good place to play cricket and said the tri-nation tournament would provide a significant test for England.
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