ICC World T20 2016: 5 players from associate nations that grabbed attention

The ICC World T20 2016 is past us and we have a new champion. The participating teams put their foot forward and displayed tremendous application and provided entertainment for the crowds. 

The pitches used too have to be given credit for their varying nature that forced teams to formulate strategies accordingly and the teams that read the conditions did better than the others.

Many players too bolstered their reputation along the way. While there were usual suspects in the form of Virat Kohli, Joe Root, Martin Guptill among others, there were players from the associate nations that in many ways grabbed the attention of the audience. These players gave a solid account of themselves and were not in any way hassled by the reputation of the ‘bigger’ teams, and hence their play and performance will linger for a longer time.

Here are 5 players that demanded more opportunities for their teams, and it can only be good for cricket in general.

1.) Mohammmad Shahzad (Afghanistan)

Nothing is conventional from Shahzad and that’s what makes him special

Much has been said and written about the spirit of Afghanistan and their wicket keeper and opening batsman Mohammad Shahzad typifies that very spirit. He plays his game in a very unfiltered manner and displays raw emotions on the field. He takes the attack to the opposition and is not flustered even if he looks ugly during his shot making. He acquired cult status and became a definite crowd favourite. He laughed and jeered at opposition players but hen after the match would be the first to go and laugh it all off. He is cocky, natural and bold and his naturally gifted to entertain.

The audience would never mind getting more of Shahzad anytime, everytime. He is bulky and pants after every double, but then he is what our game wants, a person who competes and enjoys the competition.