Former Pakistan Cricketer Hails Shaheen Afridi's 'Remarkable Mindset'


image-lfjoc1reShaheen Afridi won PSL 2023 [Twitter]

The Lahore Qalandars claimed their second consecutive PSL title on Saturday at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, thanks to the heroics of their skipper Shaheen Afridi. The left-arm pacer’s stunning all-round display where he scored a sensational unbeaten 15-balls 44 and coupled it up with a four-wicket haul paved the way for Lahore’s one run win.

Aaqib Javed, the Director of Cricket Operations and bowling consultant for Lahore Qalandars, expressed his deep admiration for the Qalandars skipper, comparing his fortitude to "nerves of steel."

The Pakistan veteran extolled the exceptional qualities of match-winners and leaders, remarking that they are a different breed altogether. He emphasized Shaheen's exceptional mindset, revealing that the young southoaw believes that he can easily capture two to three wickets in a game, which he often does.

“Match-winners and leaders are a different breed altogether. Shaheen entails a different frame of mind. He believes he can easily grab two to three wickets, which he often does,” said Aaqib.

Furthermore, Aaqib acknowledged that even if things go south, as they often do in cricket, it does not deter Shaheen from his goal of taking crucial wickets. According to him, it’s a quality that only leaders have.

“But sometimes, things can go south naturally, and that's okay. It doesn't matter if his two overs were expensive for the team in the final; he covered that up by taking as many wickets in his latter overs. This is the golden attribute which only leaders have," added the former cricketer.

Meanwhile, Shaheen, who was in contention to lead the Pakistan team in Babar Azam’s absence for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, has been rested by the Pakistan Cricket Board. The series will get underway in Sharjah on Friday, March 24.