There are worries that Pakistan’s top fast bowler, Shaheen Shah Afridi, is playing with an injury during the upcoming ICC World Cup 2023. These worries have been expressed by former Pakistani cricket captains Ramiz Raja and Shoaib Malik. Shaheen is bowling with a hurt finger and in discomfort, Raja stated during the commentary of the Pakistan-Sri Lanka game. On a local sports program, Malik highlighted concerns about Shaheen’s slowed pace and how it affects Pakistan’s play against powerful opponents.
Shaheen was advised by Malik to consult with the trainer and physiotherapist to see why he is unable to bowl at his usual pace. Shaheen’s ability to take wickets with the new ball, particularly against powerful teams, is a huge advantage for Pakistan, according to the former captain. Shaheen’s pace has slowed down since his injury, where it used to be regularly faster.
Shaheen’s performance in the most recent encounter against Sri Lanka, where he grabbed one wicket and let up 66 runs in nine overs, sparked questions about his form. There is an urgent need to fix this matter because crucial games against teams like Australia, India, and South Africa are coming up soon.
In the history of ODI World Cups, Pakistan’s historic victory over Sri Lanka featured the highest-ever run chase, with Mohammad Rizwan and Abdullah Shafique leading the way. Pakistan’s morale will soar after this victory as they prepare for their much awaited showdown against India.
Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama of Sri Lanka put on an incredible batting performance that resulted in a mammoth total of 344 runs, but also called into question Pakistan’s bowling. Shaheen Afridi and the team management will be under intense scrutiny as they work to solve his injury worries and enhance their performance in key forthcoming games.
