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Pakistan find themselves in a challenging position after suffering losses to India and Australia in their last two matches of the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023. To maintain a realistic shot at progressing to the semifinals, the side, under the leadership of Babar Azam, must secure victories in at least four of their upcoming five matches. Their net run rate has been adversely affected which means that not just wins, but dominant performances are the need of the hour.
Their next challenge is against Afghanistan, set to take place at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
In the lead-up to the World Cup, there were murmurs that Pakistan was apprehensive about facing Afghanistan in Chennai, given the pitch's propensity to favour spin. However, their concerns were dismissed by the BCCI, meaning the Pakistani side will have to bring their A-game against the formidable Afghans.
On a lighter vein, a video clip featuring former skipper Shahid Afridi has been making the rounds on social media. In the video, Afridi's youngest daughter poses a question about his son-in-law and star pacer Shaheen Afridi's inclusion in the team, leading to a humorous exchange that had the studio audience laughing heartily.
In the conversation, Arwa Afridi asked her father whether Shaheen Afridi is in the Pakistan team, to which he replies 'Yes,' but the response to her next query left the remaining panel in splits!
When questioned by his daughter as to why the pacer is in the team, he said, "We will ask why when he starts playing badly for the country!"
It's worth noting that Shaheen Afridi is wedded to Shahid Afridi's daughter, Ansha Afridi. In a recent match, Shaheen Afridi showcased his prowess by taking five wickets against Australia, although Pakistan couldn't capitalise on this and fell short in their chase.
The road ahead looks rocky for the Men in Green. Once boasting a formidable bowling line-up, the injury to Naseem Shah has dealt them a blow. The team seems to be leaning heavily on Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf, as other bowlers haven't quite hit their stride. On batting-friendly pitches, it's unrealistic to expect Shaheen and Haris to deliver match-winning performances consistently. Pakistan might find themselves in a tight spot if these pacers have an off day.
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