As soon as the PCB reverted to it’s decision of Babar Azam as the T20I captain, after sacking Shaheen Afridi from the post, there have been rumours of a rift between the two. But on it’s part the board decided to do some damage control, as both the men spoke in favour of the decision.
Shaheen Afridi Says..
Shaheen, who took over the reigns of the Pakistani T20I team in November last year, led the side in five matches only, losing four and winning one. After the decision, he clarified, that it was his duty to back skipper Babar Azam. “It was an absolute honour to captain the Pakistan National Cricket Team. I will always cherish the memories and the opportunity,” Shaheen said as per a statement to PCB.
As a team player, it is my duty to back our captain, Babar Azam. I have played under his captaincy and have nothing but respect for him. I will try to help him on and off the field. We are all one. Our aim is the same, to help Pakistan become the best team in the world.”
Babar Azam Returns the Favour, Says..
On the other hand, Babar also said something similar, about playing under Shaheen. “It was a pleasure to play under Shaheen’s leadership in the recent T20I series. He is still young and is improving as a player and as a leader every day.
“As a captain, I have always valued his input and I will keep consulting him for important decisions going forward. We must take advantage of his strategic understanding of the game. Our joint aim is to make this team the best in the world.”
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