BRISBANE, Australia: Pakistan pacer Shaheen Afridi has revealed plans to challenge star batter Babar Azam by exploiting Australia’s pace-friendly wickets when Brisbane Heat face Sydney Sixers on January 6 in the Big Bash League (BBL).
Speaking on ‘The Surge’ Big Bash podcast, the Pakistan T20I captain discussed the unique excitement of facing compatriots like Babar Azam, who is representing the Sydney Sixers, after years of sharing a dressing room for the national side.
“It will be more exciting here,” Shaheen said. “I hope the ball helps us more, not like in Pakistan with flat wickets! We will be enjoying it here. It’ll be exciting playing against each other.”
‘Use the Australian Wickets’
When pressed on his specific plan to contain Babar, a batsman he hailed as “world-class,” Shaheen was initially coy before outlining a straightforward approach.
“My plan will be simple: Use the Australian wickets,” the left-arm pacer explained, signalling his intent to leverage the extra bounce and seam movement.
Rocky Debut
The upcoming clash against the Sixers on January 6 presents a critical chance for redemption for Shaheen.
His maiden BBL outing was a tough one, as he was removed from the bowling attack during the Heat’s match against the Melbourne Renegades after a costly over.
Brought back for the 18th over, Shaheen conceded 43 runs in just 2.4 overs, struggling with his control at the death.
His over included two waist-high full tosses called as no-balls, prompting the umpires to take him out of the attack.
Babar Azam’s debut in the Big Bash League proved underwhelming, as he managed only two runs from five deliveries in the season opener against the Perth Scorchers at Optus Stadium on Sunday.
This performance contributed to a challenging opening week for Pakistani stars in the current BBL season.
