Mohali: After suffering a heart wrenching two-wicket defeat against arch-rival India in World T20 at the Eden Gardens, Pakistan T20 skipper Shahid Afridi on Monday called on his side to stop making minor mistakes if they want to get back on track.
Afridi’s comments came ahead of their clash against New Zealand, which had opened their T20 campaign with a thrilling 47-run triumph over the hosts.
“We have to stop repeating small mistakes. The boys are in good form at the moment, both batting and bowling department are doing well. We just have to focus on playing good cricket,” the all-rounder told the media here.
Admitting that it was an honour to represent Pakistan for so many years, Afridi insisted that he just wanted his players to put their best foot forward in their upcoming matches.
“Winning or losing is a different thing. I will be satisfied when I and my entire team give their 100 percent on the field. Then whatever may be the result I have no issue,” he said.
Reflecting his views on New Zealand, Afridi said the Kane Williamson-led side is well balanced at the moment and displaying some good cricket.
“I think they are playing a really good cricket especially in this format and I think the way they started the first game against India that was amazing. I think they won the game against the good spinning attack. I think they are well planned, well prepared. Their squad is well balanced according to the situation, according to the pitch situation as well,” said Afridi.
Earlier, Afridi failed to replicate his good performance as he had displayed during their win against Bangladesh in their World T20 campaign opener and eventually got dismissed after smashing mere eight runs from 14 balls against India.
Ahmed Shehzad (25) and Shoaib Malik (26) were the only two batsmen, who provided some resistance for his side.
The 2009 World T20 champions will play against New Zealand at the Punjab Cricket Stadium in Mohali on Tuesday. (ANI)