Former Pakistani cricketer Shahid Afridi has complimented India’s captain Rohit Sharma for his confident body language, noting his contribution to India’s success in winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. Afridi also expressed worries about Babar Azam’s captaincy in the recently finished tournament in the Americas. India ended their 11-year wait for an ICC title with a close seven-run win over South Africa in Bridgetown, Barbados, claiming the T20 World Cup trophy for the second time. On the other hand, Pakistan did not make it to the Super 8s, losing to new team the United States and traditional rival India in the Group stage.
“Listen, being a leader is really crucial. How the leader behaves affects the whole team. A leader needs to show the right way. Let’s consider Rohit Sharma,” Shahid Afridi explained. Afridi, who has played 398 one-day internationals and 99 Twenty20 internationals, pointed out that Rohit boosts his team’s confidence with his bold way of playing. “Now, think about Rohit’s approach and how he plays; the players who bat later feel sure of themselves because the captain enjoys playing boldly and offensively. That’s why I always think that the captain’s job is very important,” Afridi added.
Afridi, who is also the father-in-law of Pakistani fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi, believes that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) should allow the national selection committee to choose the team captain. He said, “I’m not sure what the PCB chairman is thinking right now, and I’m also curious to see what changes will happen, but I’ve always supported the team and will continue to do so.” He added, “I’m also curious about these changes. A good decision needs to be made, and the changes should be meaningful, not just on the surface. The real problem is in the basic level of our cricket. Our foundation is weak, and if we invest in that area, we will find good players.” Afridi’s comments highlight the importance of strong leadership and proper development at the basic level to succeed in international cricket.
