Pakistani fast bowler Shaheen Afridi’s inclusion in the Nottinghamshire Outlaws team has brought in early Christmas for the team. Today, he will be making his debut at the home ground Trent Bridge against Derbyshire Falcons in the Vitality Blast tournament. Nottinghamshire’s coach Peter Moores and captain Steven Mullaney are both excited about having the left-arm pacer in their squad. According to them, his presence will attract more spectators to the stadium.
Coach Peter Moores described Afridi’s arrival at Trent Bridge as Christmas coming early. He added that they have been excited for a long time and ever since Afridi’s arrival, the sun has shown for the first time, which they considered a good sign. Captain Steven Mullaney is hopeful that with Afridi leading the pace attack, they can get through the group stage and have a chance of winning the trophy. He also revealed that there was immense positive feedback on social media when the news broke out about Afridi’s signing.
The Nottinghamshire Outlaws are currently facing some injury scares, but Mullaney remains confident that he has enough talented players in the squad to win the tournament. Afridi’s experience of leading Lahore Qalandars to victory twice in the Pakistan Super League can also be beneficial for the side. “Obviously with Shaheen leading the attack, it’s going to be very exciting. There are some very good teams, so we will have to play very well. He’s won two titles for Lahore Qalandars in the PSL, so we know his leadership skills and it will help me as a captain. So, really looking forward to having him by my side,” said Mullaney.
Peter Moores, who has previously served as head coach for the England men’s team and PSL franchise Karachi Kings, shared his experiences of working in Pakistan and praised the passion in Pakistan cricket. He added that he loves the emotions the players show when they greet each other before the start of the game and then do battle in the field. By the time they come off the field, they embrace and appreciate what the game is for.
