SL vs PAK 2022 | Saqlain Mushtaq claims Pakistan bowlers will miss Shaheen Afridi in the 2nd Test

The second Test between Pakistan and hosts Sri Lanka is underway at the Galle International Stadium. The visitors are playing without one of the architects of their series-leading win from the first Test, prime pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi.

Afridi took four wickets in the first innings of the opening Test while his spell in the second innings was cut short due to a knee injury he picked up in the match. The injury prompted him to miss the decider where he was replaced by Nauman Ali.

Legendary Pakistan spinner and active coach Saqlain Mushtaq believes that Afridi’s absence will be felt by his teammates, considering the experience he brings to the table. The former cricketer said:

“He is our main bowler who leads others from the front. Definitely, bowlers will miss his presence and that energy he brings in. We have looked at the pitch but nothing is decided as of yet. Obviously, Shaheen's replacement is there but apart from this, we will sit and decide before announcing the final XI”.

The coach also praised Pakistan’s efforts after winning the first Test, where they pulled off the second-highest successful run-chase in their Test history.

“Our players showed great determination, potential and execution of plans to win the last game. From Abdullah Shafique to tail-ender Naseem Shah and then Hassan Ali, Yasir Shah and others, everyone fought hard to achieve a well-deserved victory,” he added.

SL vs PAK 2022 updates

Sri Lanka won the toss for the second time this series and they decided to bat first. At the time of publishing, they reached 180-3 off 50 overs, with Angelo Mathews and Dinesh Chandimal batting at the crease.

Afridi’s replacement Nauman Ali went wicketless in his expensive opening spell. 

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