Former Pak players criticize skipper Afridi for irresponsible attitude
By ANISunday, January 23, 2011
KARACHI - Pakistan’s one-day international captain Shahid Afridi has been roundly criticized for his irresponsible attitude by former players Aamir Sohail and Abdul Qadir during Saturday’s first one-day international against New Zealand in Wellington, New Zealand.
“How can a captain ask other players to show responsibility if he himself is guilty of such horrible strokes to let the team down,” the Daily Times quoted Qadir, as saying.
He was commenting on Afridi’s dismissal for a 29-ball 15 at a time when Pakistan was struggling at 57-5 in 20th over. Pakistan went on to lose the match by nine wickets.
“This is professional cricket and the professionals have to perform in all playing conditions and under all circumstances. The conditions or the swinging balls should not be blamed,” Qadir said.
Aamir said: “This is certainly the worst preparation ahead of next month’s World Cup. Pakistan batsmen struggled against the moving balls of New Zealander medium pacers who used the condition admirably.”
“Pakistan batsmen, including Afridi, should have displayed better temperament against the moving balls,” said Iqbal, who resigned as chief selector after Pakistan disastrous tour to Australia last year. (ANI)
