Veteran cricketers Ramiz Raja and Shoaib Malik have expressed concernsabout the injury of Pakistan’s leading fast bowler, Shaheen Shah Afridi, inthe lead-up to the highly anticipated Pakistan-India clash scheduled forOctober 14.
During the Men in Green’s match against Sri Lanka,cricketer-turned-commentator Ramiz Raja raised the issue, commenting thatShaheen is currently dealing with an injured finger and is visibly bowlingin pain.
In a separate interview with a private sports channel, former all-rounderShoaib Malik emphasized the significance of Shaheen’s injury, noting thathe has been bowling at a reduced pace compared to his usual speed. Hehighlighted that this is a major concern for the Pakistan cricket teambecause Shaheen’s ability to take wickets with the new ball, especiallyagainst formidable teams, has been a crucial asset for Pakistan.
Shoaib Malik suggested that Shaheen should take the initiative to workclosely with the team’s physio and trainer to address the reasons behindhis decreased bowling speed. While acknowledging that Shaheen is returningfrom an injury, Malik expressed concern over his inability to consistentlybowl at speeds around 140 kilometers per hour, especially considering thatbefore the injury, his first ball in a spell often exceeded 145 kilometersper hour. The noticeable reduction in his pace is a cause for worry.
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Malik also pointed out the significance of upcoming matches against teamslike Australia, India, and South Africa for Pakistan, and emphasized theneed for the team management to collaborate with Shaheen to find a solutionto this issue.
These comments come after Shaheen Shah Afridi conceded 66 runs and took onewicket in nine overs during the match against Sri Lanka. In thetournament’s opening match against the Netherlands, he had figures of 1-37in seven overs.