Opinion

Don’t have temperament: Shahid Afridi on coaching Pakistan national team

Written by Abhishek Patil

After getting roped in for the upcoming Abu Dhabi T10 by newbies Qalandars, Pakistan great Shahid Afridi looks raring to go for another memorable limited-overs tournament. Entertainer, crowd puller and one of the most fearsome batsmen to step in the gentlemen’s game for the Green Army, Afridi is a name that no needs introduction. Even years after his retirement from the international circuit, Afridi remains a relevant figure for being the flag bearer of cricket in unofficial tournaments.

Since Afridi’s former teammate Mishab-ul-Haq is at the helm with dual responsibilities as the head coach and chief selector, it will be no brainer if Afridi opts for a coaching stint with the national side in the near future. When the legendary all-rounder was asked about whether he can pursue a coaching career, the 44-year-old said that he is only keen on playing cricket at the time.

“I don’t have the temperament to coach the national team. Moreover, I am fit as ever so my focus is on playing cricket right now and try and give my best for the team,” he said. However, Afridi said he can start by giving training to promising young talents of the country. “I would be interested in coaching young boys under 18 and 19. It is that age they need coaching,” he said.

Giving his take on the 2019 World Cup where Pakistan failed to seal their berth in the semis, Afridi said;” Pakistan’s performance in the World Cup was not what we expected but under the new coach we expect some changes”.

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Abhishek Patil