PAK vs ENG: “No Added Advantage”- Ollie Pope Says Shaheen Afridi’s Absence A Good Thing For England Ahead Of 1st Test

England batter Ollie Pope said that Pakistan pacer Shaheen Afridi’s absence in the upcoming three-Test series is a good thing for the visitors, but said it won’t certainly be a huge advantage for the team.

England, who is visiting Pakistan for the first time since 2005 will play three Tests against Pakistan with the first one starting on December 1^st in Rawalpindi. The second Test match will be played in Multan from December 9 onwards and the final Test will be played in Karachi from December 17.

Talking about Shaheen Afridi’s absence, Ollie Pope told thenews.com.pk:

“Shaheen is obviously an amazing bowler, he’s a very special bowler with good pace and good skills. But we know Pakistan has got some other talented bows as well, like Haris Rauf and Nasim Shah, and some guys who are new on the block as well and there’ll be they’ll be keen and excited to get going. So, it’s obviously a good thing for us that Shaheen is not playing but at the same time they’ve got other strengths their side as well.”

“I wouldn’t say an edge,” the England batter said when asked if absence of Shaheen provides England an advantage.

This Is A New Place For Me I’ve Never Had Batted Here Before: Ollie Pope On Playing In Pakistan

Ollie Pope had scored 146 in a practice match against England Lions at Abu Dhabi before coming to Pakistan, he had also scored 136 in his last first-class match while having two half-centuries in test series against South Africa.

The middle-order batter said that he is looking forward to continuing his form and scoring more runs for his side.

He said: “I try not to set too many goals numbers-wise. Obviously, this is a new place for me I’ve never had batted here before. So, it’s trying to adapt as quickly as I can and obviously put in contributions for the team and hopefully in a match-winning side as well. So that’s the main importance for me.”

I’ve been feeling good. I’m in a good place with the bat. So, fingers crossed, I can bring that form here. Obviously like I said, it’s different conditions. So, I need to adapt my game slightly. I feel good within myself and if you’re playing well hopefully the runs will come if you keep trusting the process.”

He also praised the arrangements in Pakistan and said that he has enjoyed his time since arrival and is excited for the rest of the trip.

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