However, Shan Masood, a Pakistani cricketer, has instructed the New Zealand openers to finish Shaheen Afridi’s overs. As such, In the opening match of the Super 12s at the T20 World Cup 2021, the towering left-arm bowler was at his best against India.
During the powerplay overs, Afridi got the new ball to move and was able to send both of India’s openers to the pavilion. He returned to finish his time in the final overs. He was also successful in scalping Indian captain Virat Kohli.
The Super 12s match between Pakistan and New Zealand will be held in Sharjah. Masood believes the New Zealand openers should be careful while facing Afridi. Who will bowl at least two overs with the new ball and attack the top order?
“Shaheen has shown how dangerous he is to both left and right-handers. So, I think they should take it somewhat. As a Test match or an ODI, where they look for the bad ball. But they also look to defend the good balls that he puts in, which he puts in a lot.” Masood said
T20 World Cup
However, New Zealand, on the other hand, will play their first match of the 2021 T20 World Cup. While Pakistan is already in the top two of their group after defeating India on Sunday (October 24).
Former West Indies batsman Darren Ganga also believes that when playing Shaheen Afridi. The New Zealand openers should take it easy. While he acknowledged that Afridi could have a horrible day at work. He still believes caution is the best course of action.
“New Zealand openers should look to play out Shaheen Afridi within reason. Sometimes you have a bowler who is having an off day, but they have to be watchful against Afridi.” Ganga said
However, Prior to the T20 World Cup, New Zealand was scheduled to play Pakistan on a trip. The Kiwis, on the other hand, backed out of the tour at the last minute, citing security concerns. The two teams have met five times in the T20 World Cup, including a semi-final encounter in the tournament’s debut edition.