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As the cricketing world gears up for an exciting start to 2024, Pakistan’s cricket team finds themselves in a challenging yet promising situation. After a series of setbacks, the Men in Green are set to take on New Zealand in a crucial five-match T20I series starting January 12.
Amidst the anticipation for Pakistan’s New Zealand tour, the spotlight is on the newly appointed T20I skipper, Shaheen Afridi, who has already made waves with a stunning no-look six during the recent practice session ahead of the first match in Auckland.
A tough start to the year
The year 2024 hasn’t been kind to the Pakistani cricket team so far. Following two disappointing test losses to Australia in December 2023, the team faced a whitewash and a third consecutive setback in the starting week of January 2024. However, the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand provides a fresh start and an opportunity for redemption, especially with the T20 World Cup looming on the horizon later in the year.
Transitioning to T20Is
With a shift to the shortest format of the game, Pakistan aims to regroup and refocus their efforts. The series against New Zealand becomes a crucial stepping stone for the team to fine-tune their skills and strategies ahead of the T20 World Cup. It also marks a significant moment for Shaheen, who is set to lead the team in the T20I format after a successful stint as captain in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
What paved the way for Shaheen to don captains hat?
Babar Azam‘s decision to step down from the captaincy across all formats paved the way for Shaheen to take charge of the T20I side. The young and talented fast bowler now shoulders the responsibility of leading Pakistan in the shortest format, and expectations are high for him to showcase his leadership skills on the international stage.
Also READ: PCB announces Pakistan’s T20I squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand
Shaheen’s vigorous preparation ahead of first T20I
As the countdown to the T20I series ticks away, Shaheen has been leaving no stone unturned in his preparation. The charismatic captain was recently spotted sweating it out in the nets in Auckland, honing his skills and working on various aspects of his game. Notably, the left-arm pacer has also been focusing on his batting, which was evident in a spectacular no-look six that he effortlessly executed during a net session.
Shaheen’s viral no-look six
A video capturing Shaheen’s no-look six has taken the internet by storm. The stylish shot and the captain’s composed pose after hitting the ball have added an extra layer of excitement and anticipation to the upcoming series. Fans and cricket enthusiasts are now eager to witness more of Shaheen’s flair, both with the ball and the bat, as he leads Pakistan in what promises to be an electrifying T20I series against New Zealand.
Here’s the video:
Pakistan Teams first training at Auckland, Shaheen Shah Afridi no look SIX off a left arm spinner. #ShaheenShahAfridi #pakvsnz #PakistanCricket pic.twitter.com/1sd1v3yIgp
— Tauseef Satti (@TazzSatti) January 8, 2024
