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| October 10, 2006 | Tuesday | Ramazan 16, 1427 |
Big-hitting Afridi plans go slow
NEW DELHI, Oct 9: Pakistan's swashbuckling batsman Shahid Afridi on Monday said he was willing to curb the big strokes and assume greater responsibility during the Champions Trophy.
“I am planning to restrict my shots as we need to make up for skipper Inzamam-ul-Haq's absence,” said Afridi, who has entertained the crowds with his attacking instincts over a 10-year career.
“Inzamam's absence is a big blow for us in the tournament and it is for senior batsmen to show more responsibility,” said the 26-year-old, who has played 230 one-dayers.
“It won't be easy doing that because I love to play shots. I often end up trying to blast the bowling despite deciding not to do so,” admitted Afridi, who in recent matches has moved down the order.
“I have not been a regular opener of late but given a chance, would always love to bat at the top of the order.
“I am always willing to take up any slot for the team's sake but need to know where exactly I am expected to bat,” said Afridi, who burst onto the international scene with the fastest one-day century.
Afridi, who reached the three-figure mark off just 37 deliveries against Kenya in 1996 in his first one-day innings, said he was also hoping to chip in with his fastish leg-spin bowling.
“As the pitches in India favour spin bowling, I see an important role for myself there too,” said Afridi, who has picked up 192 wickets in one-dayers.—AFP
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