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Following a commanding performance by the Pakistani cricket team in the second T20I match against Ireland, former captain and all-rounder Shahid Afridi expressed his satisfaction, stating that the victory was crucial for Pakistan. Afridi, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), praised the Men in Green for their comprehensive seven-wicket triumph over Ireland at the Clontarf Cricket Club in Dublin.
Afridi particularly commended the batting partnership between wicketkeeper-batter Muhammad Rizwan and opener Fakhar Zaman, emphasizing its significance in securing the much-needed win. “We needed this win. Well done team, [especially] the way Rizwan and Fakhar played,” Afridi remarked.
Highlighting the importance of maintaining a similar mindset and strike rates in the upcoming World Cup, Afridi also congratulated star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi for reaching a milestone of 300 wickets in international matches.
Pakistan’s victory was anchored by stellar performances from Rizwan, Fakhar, and Azam Khan, with the team successfully chasing down the target in the 17th over. The partnership between Rizwan and Fakhar, which amassed 140 runs, set a new record for Pakistan’s highest third-wicket partnership in T20Is, surpassing the previous record of 105 runs.
While Shaheen Shah Afridi claimed three crucial wickets, other bowlers such as Mohammad Amir and Abbas Afridi made notable contributions to restrict Ireland’s scoring. The series now stands leveled at 1-1, with the final match scheduled to take place at the same venue on April 14th.
Pakistan’s emphatic performance has not only rejuvenated their campaign in the ongoing series but has also instilled confidence ahead of future challenges, particularly the impending World Cup.
