Former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi has raised concerns about wicketkeeper-batter Azam Khan’s fitness as the team gears up for the upcoming T20 World Cup in England.
Afridi pointed out that the conditions in England differ from those in the West Indies, with English pitches being less bouncy and the ball staying low, potentially challenging for the young wicketkeeper.
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“Fitness is crucial. If you are fit, it shows in your body language on the field, whether batting, bowling, or fielding. Fitness can’t be compromised,” Afridi emphasized.
In T20Is, Azam has scored only 88 runs in 11 innings, averaging 11 with a strike rate of 146. Despite this, he showcased his potential in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), amassing 226 runs with a striking rate of 171.21 for Islamabad United, the champions this year.
The 2009 T20 World Cup winner stressed the importance of fitness in international cricket, especially for a wicketkeeper who needs to stay agile in varying conditions.
Afridi’s comments suggest that Khan’s inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad might impact his batting and keeping performance due to his fitness concerns.
Pakistan will face the USA, India, Ireland, and Canada in their Group A campaign, starting against co-hosts USA on June 6 in Dallas, followed by a highly anticipated match against India on June 9.
