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Shaheen Shah Afridi shared following thoughts after the third ODI and winning the series 3-0 against Sri Lanka:
Q: Shaheen, Pakistan has just completed another whitewash against South Africa, and earlier victories came against Sri Lanka and India. With the T20 World Cup ahead, do you feel the team is back on track?*
A: First of all, we thank Allah for winning two series in a row. Today, Pakistan Shaheen also won. Beating our neighbours was special, and the young players performed very well. Across all three matches, everyone contributed, and Alhamdulillah, we won the series.
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Q: When Babar and Rizwan are at the crease, the team looks more confident and settled. How important is it for senior players to step up, and how does that help the younger ones?*
A: From 1 to 11, we trust every player to deliver. But of course, seniors bring extra stability. Babar and Rizwan are the backbone of the team, and their presence gives comfort. Their performances inspire the younger players and provide a cushion for them to grow.
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Q: There was concern about Babar’s form and some pressure on Rizwan too. When Babar scored a century with Rizwan alongside him, what was the atmosphere in the dressing room, and how much relief did you feel as captain?*
A: It was a moment of happiness for all of Pakistan cricket. We were waiting for Babar’s hundred, and when your main player scores, the whole team relaxes. He worked hard, believed in himself, and stayed focused in nets and matches. Eventually, his efforts paid off. Rizwan also finished matches strongly, playing his role as a senior.
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Q: Wasim Junior has performed well whenever given a chance, but he hasn’t played regularly despite travelling with the team. Do you think Pakistan cricket is using him to his full potential?*
A: Yes, they are. He had injuries, and opportunities often depend on fitness. He travelled with the team but needed treatment. When he returned, he showed his skill, especially with reverse swing. All our bowlers are game changers, and Wasim Junior is part of that strong pool.
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Q: The Tri-Series starts in two days. Fans expect Pakistan to use home advantage and win. What’s your outlook?*
A: God willing, we will win. The team has been performing well from Test cricket onwards, despite lapses in one or two matches. Importantly, it’s not just one player—everyone contributes when given the chance. That collective effort is what Pakistan cricket needs, and we are ready for the challenge.
Q: Shaheen, Pakistan has just completed another whitewash against South Africa, and earlier victories came against Sri Lanka and India. With the T20 World Cup ahead, do you feel the team is back on track?*
A: First of all, we thank Allah for winning two series in a row. Today, Pakistan Shaheen also won. Beating our neighbours was special, and the young players performed very well. Across all three matches, everyone contributed, and Alhamdulillah, we won the series.
---
Q: When Babar and Rizwan are at the crease, the team looks more confident and settled. How important is it for senior players to step up, and how does that help the younger ones?*
A: From 1 to 11, we trust every player to deliver. But of course, seniors bring extra stability. Babar and Rizwan are the backbone of the team, and their presence gives comfort. Their performances inspire the younger players and provide a cushion for them to grow.
---
Q: There was concern about Babar’s form and some pressure on Rizwan too. When Babar scored a century with Rizwan alongside him, what was the atmosphere in the dressing room, and how much relief did you feel as captain?*
A: It was a moment of happiness for all of Pakistan cricket. We were waiting for Babar’s hundred, and when your main player scores, the whole team relaxes. He worked hard, believed in himself, and stayed focused in nets and matches. Eventually, his efforts paid off. Rizwan also finished matches strongly, playing his role as a senior.
---
Q: Wasim Junior has performed well whenever given a chance, but he hasn’t played regularly despite travelling with the team. Do you think Pakistan cricket is using him to his full potential?*
A: Yes, they are. He had injuries, and opportunities often depend on fitness. He travelled with the team but needed treatment. When he returned, he showed his skill, especially with reverse swing. All our bowlers are game changers, and Wasim Junior is part of that strong pool.
---
Q: The Tri-Series starts in two days. Fans expect Pakistan to use home advantage and win. What’s your outlook?*
A: God willing, we will win. The team has been performing well from Test cricket onwards, despite lapses in one or two matches. Importantly, it’s not just one player—everyone contributes when given the chance. That collective effort is what Pakistan cricket needs, and we are ready for the challenge.
