Subcontinental trend to blame heroes after defeats: Shahid Afridi on MS Dhoni
Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi defended India captain MS Dhoni against the criticism he has been recently targeted with and stated that it is a “sub-continental trend” of condemning heroes after any defeat.
“I really felt bad in the way MS (Dhoni) has been treated after Bangladesh series defeat. I completely think it’s a sub-continental trend where our heroes are not spared after one bad defeat. The media is also responsible for not painting the true picture at times,” Afridi said.
Afridi, who is as much a polarising figure in Pakistan as Dhoni is in India, stood by the India captain.
“I am not saying that one should not analyse the present performance of a leader or a player. Criticise him but when you do that please don’t forget to also inform the world about the past. When you look at Dhoni, just look at his record before jumping to any conclusions. He has been such a tremendous player for India. His record speaks for itself.
“Dhoni has built such a good team for the future. There is so much quality and talent in that batting line-up.”
Pakistan domestic structure in good shape: Afridi
Afridi also mentioned the improved domestic structure and bench strength of the Pakistan Cricket team.
“Pakistan cricket’s domestic structure has improved a lot in recent years. That is why we are now having a good supply line of youngsters in the national team. This team will only grow from strength to strength in coming days,” observed the 35-year-old.
Afridi who now plays only T20s for Pakistan quit the ODI format after the 2015 World Cup after playing a record 398 matches. When asked if he regretted not reaching the 400 match milestone, he replied, “Not at all. In fact I am grateful to Almighty Allah (God) that I have got the opportunity to play for Pakistan for such a long time. I am very happy to play T20 for Pakistan and would like to play the World T20 in India, next year.”
Afridi, often dubbed as Boom-Boom, also said that playing in T20 leagues across the world is his way keeping fit for competitions.
“I have played in Big Bash in Australia and now I will be playing for St Kitts and Nevis in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). In all these tournaments, you play with some of the top international cricketers in the world and you know you will have to be at your best to compete with them,” said Afridi.
Afridi also stated that “India’s co-operation will be needed” to bring back full-time cricket into the country after the unfortunate terrorist attacks.