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Shahid Afridi's murderous 84-ball unbeaten 85 in Faisalabad propelled Pakistan to 379-4 on the opening day of the second Test against India. When play ended, Afridi had smashed 11 boundaries and three sixes for a strike rate of 101.2.
The bowlers looked completely ineffective as Afridi carted boundaries and sixes like only he can and at that pace. In one Irfan Pathan over, Afridi smashed 22 runs, including two successive sixes.
These Afridi spectacles always liven up the ground whenever he is out there in the middle whether it is Pakistan or abroad.
What does he think about curbing his instincts when required?
"I don't see any reason why I should change my style of batting. I have scored all my runs in international cricket by playing aggressively and would continue that in the forthcoming series. I don't know why but I like to chase bowlers," Afridi said in an interview on the eve of the first Test. "I have been told that I would be batting at number 6 which I think is a very crucial spot. But I am not overawed by that position and would maintain my natural aggressive style. I think that is also what the public likes. I promise whatever may be the situation, you will find the same attacking Afridi."
Some will forgive bowlers who unleash choice invectives at this point. (To be continued)
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