Colombo, Mar 17: Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi believes that right-handed batsman Asad Shafiq will provide stability to the team’s top-order in the World Cup knockout stage.
Shafiq had hit a timely 78 not out on his World Cup debut to shepherd Pakistan to a seven-wicket victory over Zimbabwe on Monday.
“Shafiq has eased our batting headache. He has shown the sort of temperament you need at the top of your batting order and I’m sure that he will strengthen our side in big games,” the News quoted Afridi, as saying.
Pakistan has not had a substantial contribution from the top order, with 28 against Sri Lanka their highest opening stand.
The 31-year-old further said that his players are in good rhythm and will be impressive against defending champions Australia when the two sides meet in their Group A clash on Saturday.
“It’s a big match for my boys because they know that by beating Australia, they will go into the knockout phase with a lot of confidence,” Afridi said.
© ANI
