Afridi happy to lead by example for Pakistan

Omnisports

March 16, 2016 2:57 AM

Shahid Afridi happy to lead by example in Pakistan's thrashing of Bangladesh in the World Twenty20 and does not fear facing India

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Shahid Afridi was happy to lead by example in Pakistan's crushing 55-run World Twenty20??victory against Bangladesh and said his side will have a new-found confidence when they face arch-rivals India on Saturday.

Afridi smashed 49 off only 19 balls after??Ahmed Shehzad (52) and??Mohammad Hafeez (64) had laid the foundations for Pakistan's highest World Twenty20 total of 201-5 in their opening game of the tournament??at Eden Gardens on Wednesday.

The Pakistan captain Afridi and paceman??Mohammad Amir both took 2-27 as Bangladesh were restricted to 146-6 in reply, with Shakib Al Hasan making an unbeaten 50 in a losing cause.

Pakistan came??in for plenty of criticism following a poor showing at the Asia Cup and Afridi, whose position as captain has been called into question, was determined to show what his side are capable of.

The all-rounder said: "My performances always play a key role, and I was really hungry to perform. For the last few series' I didn't play well. But I was focused on my performance because I know how important it is for me and my country.

"It's a big event as captain, as senior player, I have to lead by example."

Pakistan have lost their last three T20 matches against India, but Afridi said that will not be on his mind when the two sides renew their rivalries in Kolkata this weekend.??

"I don't want to talk about the past, I don't live in past. I think we should learn from our mistakes," added Afridi.

"We have done well against these guys and India have been playing good cricket, even with the last loss. We won this match and everyone is feeling good after this win."

Omnisports