Shaheen Afridi Calls on Pakistan to Sustain Winning Streak Against Sri Lanka
Shaheen Afridi, the newly appointed captain of Pakistan’s One Day International (ODI) team, has urged his teammates to build upon their recent success as they prepare for a three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka. This series will kick off in Rawalpindi on Tuesday, marking a crucial test for the squad.
Building on Recent Success
Afridi recently led Pakistan to a 2-1 series victory against South Africa, his first series as captain. This win has boosted the team’s confidence after a disappointing performance at the ICC Champions Trophy earlier this year. He emphasized the importance of sustaining this momentum as they face off against Sri Lanka.
Team Cohesion and Consistency
Afridi praised his team’s energy and teamwork during the South Africa series. He expressed pride in how players responded to pressure situations. “Our focus is to carry that winning momentum into the Sri Lanka series,” he stated, indicating a desire for improved performance across all departments.
Challenges Ahead
Sri Lanka, known for their disciplined approach, poses a significant challenge. Afridi acknowledged their skills and stressed the need for smart cricket. He encourages every team member to take personal responsibility, not just relying on senior players.
Pakistan Squad for the Series
The following players have been selected for the ODI series against Sri Lanka:
- Shaheen Afridi (c)
- Abrar Ahmed
- Babar Azam
- Faheem Ashraf
- Faisal Akram
- Fakhar Zaman
- Haris Rauf
- Haseebullah
- Hussain Talat
- Mohammad Nawaz
- Mohammad Rizwan
- Mohammad Wasim Jr.
- Naseem Shah
- Saim Ayub
- Salman Ali Agha
The series against Sri Lanka is an opportunity for Pakistan to demonstrate their growth as a team. Afridi’s leadership and the team’s collective effort will be crucial in securing a series victory and enhancing their reputation in ODI cricket.
