The recent remarks made by former Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez regarding Shaheen Afridi's performance in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 has gained praise. Pakistan standout bowler, Shaheen Afridi, who played a crucial role in Pakistan's match against Australia in Bangalore's M. Chinnaswamy Stadium was targeted by Indian commentator.
He achieved a notable five-wicket haul, helping Pakistan contain the five-time champions to a score of under 400 runs. Despite his impressive performance, Pakistan, led by Babar Azam, lost the game by 62 runs.
Mohammad Hafeez, expressing his views on the star fast-bowler's performance, defended Shaheen Afridi against criticism. He suggested that Shaheen's five-wicket haul was a strong response to those who had been critical of him, stating, "Shaheen's fifer is a statement to those comments, which someone has made sitting somewhere."
Hafeez also emphasized that there should be no comparisons made between Shaheen Afridi and other players, indicating that Shaheen knows how to perform when the odds are against him. Even when the ball was being hit all over the park by the Australian batsmen, Shaheen Afridi made a significant impact and instilled hope for a Pakistani victory.
Mohammad Hafeez's remarks were directed at Indian commentator Ravi Shastri. Shastri had previously commented on an Indian sports channel, suggesting that Shaheen Afridi should not be compared to the legendary Pakistani cricketer Wasim Akram. Shastri stated, "Shaheen Shah Afridi is no Wasim Akram. He's a good bowler, but no need to overhype him.
When he's just good enough, no need to forcefully say he's an unbelievable bowler." These comments from Hafeez and Shastri have sparked a debate regarding Shaheen Afridi's standing in the cricketing world.