PAK vs AFG: Wasim Akram Reacts To Ravi Shastri's 'Don't Overhype' Remark On Shaheen Afridi

Former Pakistan cricketer Wasim Akram reacted to Ravi Shastri’s ‘don’t overhype Shaheen Afridi’ remark. He said that the Indian commentator is a good friend of him and everyone is entitled to their opinion. 

After the game between India and Pakistan, where Shaheen Afridi was taken to runs, Ravi Shastri made a bold remark about the pacer. The former Indian cricketer said that although the left-arm pacer is good and claims wickets with a new ball, he’s not Wasim Akram, so people shouldn’t overhype him. 

Ravi Shastri added that Shaheen Afridi is an average bowler and he may not end with the stature of a great player. Speaking on air, he elaborated: 

“He is a good bowler, he can claim a wicket with the new ball. But you have to admit it, if Naseem Shah is not playing and the quality of Pakistan’s spin bowling is like this, then Shaheen Shah Afridi koi Wasim Akram nai hai! Acche bowler hai.

“Lekin itna bhi jyaada chadane ka koi zaroorat nahi hai. Jab hai theek thak, toh bolna chahiye woh theek thaak hai. Chadha ke nahin bithana chahiye ki bohot zabardast hai. Yeh nahi hai! Yeh maan na padega.

“(Shaheen Afridi may be a skilled bowler, but it’s essential not to exaggerate his abilities by comparing him to Wasim Akram. While he is undoubtedly a good player, it’s important to limit our praise to acknowledging his proficiency. He may not reach the status of a great player, ar we must acknowledge that fact).” 

PAK vs AFG: Shaheen Afridi is one of the best right now – Wasim Akram’s reply to Ravi Shastri 

Wasim Akram was asked about Ravi Shastri’s remark, replying to which he said that Shaheen Afridi is one of the best pacers right now. He admitted that the pacer is out of touch but will get his rhythm back after playing Test cricket. Speaking on A Sports, he explained: 

“I read about it. Ravi is a good friend of mine, that’s his opinion. If you want to draw comparisons with any top bowlers of the world, Shaheen is one of the best right now. 

“He may be out of touch, low on confidence but he will make a comeback. He is young. He gets his rhythm back when he plays Test cricket, he starts taking wickets. He is on the right track.” 

Shaheen Afridi made a strong comeback as he picked five wickets against Australia and silenced all his critics. The pacer bowled magnificently well and is currently the fifth-highest wicket-taker in the ICC World Cup 2023.