Afridi says ‘complete failure’ of all batsmen behind T20 series ‘whitewash’ against SA

KARACHI - Pakistan’s One-day International and Twenty20 skipper Shahid Afridi has criticised himself and the entire batting line-up for failing to deliver in the T20 matches, causing his side’s 0-2 series defeat against South Africa in Abu Dhabi .

“Our batting was a major let down. None of them did well,” the Daily Times quoted Afridi, as saying to TV channels after the second game, which South Africa won by six wickets.

“My performance was crucial for the team and I also failed to deliver. But I am sure we can do far better in the ODIs, since I believe that we have players who have good temperament and can play the 50 overs comfortably,” he added.

Pakistan managed only 119 and 120 runs in their two innings, scores that were overhauled with little difficulty by the Proteas. Afridi himself made 25 and 3 runs.

However, there were encouraging signs in the bowling department, with the spinners proving economical. Mohammad Hafeez and Afridi conceded just 32 runs between them in eight overs in the second game, while off spinner Saeed Ajmal conceded 18 in his four-over spell in the first.

“Our bowlers really bowled well. The conditions suited the batsmen, but despite that, our bowlers stuck to a good line and bowled brilliantly,” the skipper said.

He admitted that Pakistan cricket team was going through troubled times, in the aftermath of the spot-fixing controversy.

“Yes the players are under pressure, but we have to put that aside and concentrate and keep ourselves focused,” said Afridi. (ANI)