Afridi critical of Junaid Khan’s protest

Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi has criticised pacer Junaid Khan's silent protest over his omission from the Pakistan squad for the International Cricket Council (ICC) 2019 World Cup.

While speaking in the inaugural ceremony of his perfume, Afridi said that Junaid should have not reacted the way he did on social media.

“It is logical to feel disappointed over being dropped, however Junaid should have controlled his emotions and not protested by posting a picture,” said Afridi. “Team management should have handled this matter properly.”

The 44-year-old advised the Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed to lead from the front during the upcoming mega event.

“Sarfaraz should take responsibility and bat up the order,” he said. “Sarfaraz doesn’t have big shots in his repertoire, hence he should not bat in the lower-order.”

Afridi was also hopeful of a strong performance from veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik in his last World Cup.

“Shoaib Malik should play the role of a senior player and should help the captain in decision making during the World Cup,” he said. “Malik is playing his final World Cup, thus he should aim to finish on a high.”

Afridi was confident that Wahab Riaz selection in the World Cup squad will strengthen the Pakistan bowling attack.

“I hope Wahab’s inclusion helps the Pakistan team and he fulfills his dream of performing well in the mega event," he concluded.