When we talk about Shaheen Shah Afridi, the first thing that comes to mind is thunderbolts with the new ball. But over the last couple of PSL seasons, fans have seen another side of the Lahore Qalandars skipper — the one who walks out to bat much earlier than expected.
So what’s the story behind that?
In a recent chat with a local sports platform, Shaheen opened up about his approach to batting, especially when he comes up the order in tough situations.
Let’s be real — when a fast bowler walks out to bat at number five or six, it usually raises eyebrows. But Shaheen has a clear mindset.
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“When I come to bat early, the team is already four to five wickets down,” he said.
“I don’t want our main batters to face that pressure. So, I step in and try to score quick runs.”
That’s some serious team-first mentality. In an era where players guard their stats, Shaheen Afridi says he doesn’t care if he gets out. What matters more is shielding the top batters and trying to shift the pressure back onto the opposition.
“If I get out, it’s not a big deal. But if a senior batter goes out in that situation, the team feels the pressure,” he explained.
Batting for Fun, Bowling for Real
Now before anyone gets too excited and starts labeling Shaheen Afridi an all-rounder, the left-armer made it crystal clear:
“I don’t have any such intention of being an all-rounder. It happens for fun. My job is to bowl and then bat.”
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So, no — we’re not seeing a promotion to number three anytime soon. But when the team’s in trouble, don’t be surprised if Shaheen’s walking out with his pads on, ready to throw a few punches with the bat.
And speaking of punches, PSL 10 is ready to deliver plenty of them starting Friday, April 11. The opening clash? A heavyweight battle between defending champions Islamabad United and two-time winners Lahore Qalandars at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
With Shaheen leading from the front (literally and figuratively), you know the Qalandars are going to bring the fight — whether it’s with the new ball or in a pressure situation with the bat.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.