Former fast bowler Aaqib Javed expressed his thoughts on Pakistan pacers Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf in the aftermath of the Green Shirts’ exit from the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 in India.
It is noteworthy that Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf have faced scrutiny for their disappointing showings in the current 50-over tournament.
Haris Rauf, in particular, established an unfortunate record by becoming the most expensive bowler in a single edition of the 50-over world championship. Having bowled 79 overs, he conceded 533 runs, claimed 16 wickets with an average of 33.31, an economy rate of 6.74, and a strike rate of 29.64.’
48 years of World Cup history witness a new chapter as Haris Rauf concedes the most runs in a single edition 👀#CWC23 #HarisRauf #PAKvsENG pic.twitter.com/NznSvv9CDE
— Cricket Pakistan (@cricketpakcompk) November 11, 2023
Shaheen Afridi demonstrated better performance between the two, ranking as the fourth-highest wicket-taker in the tournament thus far. Across nine matches, he bowled 81 overs, conceded 481 runs, and secured 18 wickets.
Averaging at 26.72 and with a strike rate of 27.00, Afridi showcased notable contributions.
Aaqib Javed, the former bowling coach of the team, offered insight into why Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf delivered subpar performances. During a discussion on a private channel’s show, the ex-pacer mentioned that he had specifically trained them for T20 cricket, not ODI.
The former cricketer expressed his frustration at being held accountable for their performances. He criticized the team management for fielding them in a format for which they were not adequately prepared.
It is worth mentioning that former cricketers, experts, and fans had voiced their criticism against the management and chief selectors for choosing T20I specialists for the 50-over ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
