PAK vs WI | Multan's heat would be fast-bowler's enemy predicts star seamer Shaheen

Pakistan's lead pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi feels that Multan's hot weather will not be ideal for the fast bowlers in the three-match ODI series against the West Indies.

During a press briefing, Afridi said that the hot weather of Multan will not be ideal for the fast bowlers as they'll not be able to bowl long spells, but he's still confident about the team's preparations for the upcoming ODI series.

"Hot weather in Multan will not be ideal for fast bowlers. They will not be able to bowl long spells. But, you will see us completely prepared for the series," said Shaheen Shah Afridi in a media briefing.

"Our training sessions are also taking place around the match timings in order to acclimatise with the conditions."

During the ODI series, Multan's weather is expected to be over 40 degrees, and that'll make life difficult for the bowlers in the field.

The left-arm pacer has set his eyes on the ODIs against West Indies and wants to come on top against the visiting team, given the series is part of the ICC World Cup Super League and carries crucial points which could pave Pakistan's way into the ICC World Cup 2023.

"This is an important series in terms of World Cup qualification, which is why we don't want to lose any matches. Also, West Indies are a strong international side, and it is not as if they are sending U-19 players for this series."

"Whenever there is an opportunity to rest, the management makes sure that we get some time off," he added.

Earlier, the ODIs were scheduled to play in Rawalpindi, but due to political tensions, it was shifted to Multan, and Shaheen is delighted to see international cricket making a comeback in Multan.

"It is good to see international cricket going back to Multan. I hope their fans would be so happy about it, and we get to see a huge turnout in the stadium," he said.

Although West Indies are not as dominant as they were in the 1970s, Shaheen is not going to take the two-time world champions lightly.

"We are preparing well for the series to play competitive cricket. No international team can be taken lightly. West Indies is a good side, and we have to plan things strongly," he added.

Pakistan will host West Indies for three ICC World Cup Super League matches at Multan Cricket Stadium on June 8, 10, and 12. The ODI series will be part of the ICC World Cup Super League, which will determine the qualification for the 2023 50-over World Cup.