Pakistani fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi brought a touch of unexpected humor to a pre-match press conference in Dubai. He had a truly amusing moment when he completely forgot Bangladesh’s official cricket nickname, right before their crucial Super Fours match.
When a reporter casually referred to the Bangladeshi team as “The Tigers,” Afridi looked genuinely puzzled. He then innocently asked, “Tiger kaun?” which translates to “Who’s Tiger?”
After a brief reminder that “Tigers” is indeed Bangladesh’s nickname, a sheepish grin spread across Afridi’s face. He quickly apologized, exclaiming, “Ohh, Bangladesh, sorry!” He playfully added, “Mai head coach se puch lunga, sorry mujhe nahi pata” (I’ll have to ask the head coach, I genuinely didn’t know), further endearing himself to those present.
Historically, Bangladesh has faced a tough challenge against Pakistan in T20 Internationals, winning only five out of 25 encounters, compared to Pakistan’s dominant 20 victories. However, the Bangladeshi side recently showed their prowess by clinching a significant 2-1 home series win against Pakistan just this July.
Despite the lighthearted moment, Afridi quickly shifted focus to the upcoming game, acknowledging Bangladesh’s improved form. “Bangladesh is a good team and has been playing quite well recently,” he stated. “Whenever we play against such teams, it’s crucial for us to land the first blow and not afford them any chances.”
He emphasized the importance of a comprehensive performance: “Yes, we have to play good cricket in all three departments. Our immediate focus is entirely on the Bangladesh game and strategizing how to best approach it.”
Both teams are geared up to clash in their decisive Super Fours match in Dubai this Thursday.
Bangladesh squad for Asia Cup: Litton Das (c), Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Saif Hassan, Tawhid Hridoy, Jaker Ali Anik, Shamim Hossain, Quazi Nurul Hasan Sohan, Shak Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Shaif Uddin.
Pakistan squad for Asia Cup: Salman Ali Agha (c), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Waseem Jnr, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shaheen Afridi, Sufyan Moqim.