In a recent interview with Cricket Pakistan, Lahore Qalandars’ captain, Shaheen Shah Afridi, opened up about the challenges his team is facing in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024. With the absence of Afghan cricketer Rashid Khan due to injury, Afridi discussed the void left by the talented bowler and potential replacements.
Afridi highlighted the significance of Rashid Khan to the team, emphasizing his crucial role in the middle overs, where he consistently took wickets. He acknowledged that while Khan cannot be replaced directly, the team needs to maintain balance and adapt to his absence. Afridi expressed optimism about the arrival of Sikandar, suggesting that his addition might prove beneficial in filling the gap left by Khan’s absence.
“Rashid was our main bowler, crucial in the middle overs, taking wickets. He cannot be replaced, but we also need to maintain balance in the team. We hope Sikandar’s arrival will be beneficial,”
He added,
“I think Sikandar is the kind of bowler who can fill Rashid’s absence, allowing us to maintain our competitive edge.”
However, Afridi also addressed the challenges faced by another key bowler in the squad, Haris Rauf. Reflecting on Rauf’s recent performance, Afridi admitted that the bowler is going through a rough phase. Rauf struggled during the ODI World Cup 2023, where he conceded the most runs by a bowler in a single edition of the tournament. In the ongoing PSL 2024, Rauf’s form has continued to be inconsistent, with only one wicket to his name in two matches, conceding 85 runs in 42 balls.
Despite Rauf’s struggles, Afridi expressed confidence in the bowler’s ability to bounce back. He praised Rauf’s strength and resilience, noting that every player faces tough times and that Rauf is capable of overcoming his current challenges. Afridi reiterated Rauf’s importance not only to Lahore Qalandars but also to Pakistan’s bowling lineup, emphasizing the need for him to rediscover his form.
“Just like batsmen face tough times without scoring runs, bowlers also have such phases,” Afridi remarked. “Haris is going through a tough time, but after difficulties come ease because he is a strong player and knows how to bounce back. He is not just Lahore Qalandars’ but Pakistan’s best bowler, so it’s important for him to find his form again,” Afridi added.
As Lahore Qalandars navigates through the PSL 2024 season, Afridi’s words shed light on the team’s determination to overcome setbacks and maintain their competitive edge in the tournament. With Rashid Khan sidelined and Haris Rauf seeking redemption, the team will rely on collective effort and resilience to achieve success on the field.
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