Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi has recently acknowledged that the outcome of the 2022 T20 World Cup final against England could have been different had he bowled his full quota of overs. Reflecting on the match, Afridi recognizes the significance of his incomplete contribution and how it could have potentially influenced the final result.
Notably, in the summit clash Afridi showcased his fielding prowess by taking a clever catch to dismiss Harry Brook in the 13th over of England’s innings. However, he unfortunately injured his knee in the process and as a result, the talented left-arm paceman was forced to leave the field after bowling just two overs. Ultimately, England emerged victorious, securing a five-wicket win with an over remaining.
While emphasizing the timing of his injury, Afridi reckoned that had he remained injury-free and continued bowling, Pakistan’s chances of winning the summit clash might have been different. He accredited the unpredictable nature of injuries and demonstrates resilience by stating that dwelling too much on injuries will hinder his progress.
“Obviously, it’s every player’s dream to win a World Cup for his country and I still remember 2021, how that ended. And in this tournament, if I didn’t get injured at such a crucial moment, maybe we could’ve won. Maybe if I had stayed fit and bowled. Injuries can happen at any time. If I think too much about them then I won’t be able to move ahead,” said Shaheen as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
Afridi revealed he sustained an injury two months before the tournament and experienced another injury a few months as well. The fast bowler recognized that it will take time for him to regain his full match fitness and energy.
“I was injured two months out before the World Cup, two-three months after the World Cup also. So it will of course take time to get back. That match energy or fitness, you only get it from playing matches. Since the PSL, I’ve been feeling better, I got better through it and then played internationals for Pakistan as well. With time I’ll improve and the more I play the more I’ll improve,” added Afridi.
