Pakistan can surprise any team in the world, rule them out at your peril: Shahid Afridi

Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi believes the team’s unpredictability factor can surprise any of the top sides in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2021, which is set to begin from October 17 in Oman and UAE. Pakistan are one of the most dangerous teams as one would never anticipate what to expect from them. Either the team will play well and dominate the contest easily or can give a subpar performance.

Afridi said the team can summon the spirit of 2009 and win the second edition of the T20 World Cup. Pakistan are placed in Group B alongside India, New Zealand, and Afghanistan. They will kick off their campaign by playing against their arch-rivals India on Sunday (October 24). Afridi sounded optimistic about his team’s chances during the global event.

The former all-rounder also said that how the team had extra zeal in the 2009 T20 World Cup to perform well after the bomb explosion on the Sri Lankan team. “We had that issue of the Sri Lanka attacks on our minds,” Afridi was quoted as saying by India Today.

“The whole nation was disappointed and frustrated, so that win was very much needed. The win gave the whole nation happiness and some unforgettable moments. This is Pakistan cricket for you, never ever a dull day,” added Afridi ruefully.

Afridi further opined that Pakistan are a dangerous side and can beat any team on their given day. He also said not to underestimate the team. “Pakistan can surprise any team in the world. Rule them out at your peril. Pakistan gave the best entertainment in the first T20 World Cup,” insists Afridi.

T20 format suits our character: Shahid Afridi

The former Pakistan captain also said that the T20 format suits the team due to it being fast-paced, aggressive, and unpredictable. “T20 suits our character,” added Afridi. “We have the talent, approach, and aggression required for this rapid format.

It is a format that is loved throughout Pakistan. We won against every team and then every team adopted that style.”

Pakistan have a vast amount of experience playing in UAE conditions and skipper Babar Azam believed that it will come in handy while playing on the slow and low pitches during the T20 World Cup.