Pakistan’s pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi expressed strong confidence in his team's preparations for the upcoming tri-nation series and the Asia Cup 2025, 24NewsHD TV reported on Friday.
While addressing the media at the Dubai Cricket Stadium, he stated that the tri-nation series would play a crucial role in helping the players adapt to conditions and gain momentum in the UAE.
“We are preparing really well, and the tri-nation series before the Asia Cup will prove beneficial,” Shaheen remarked, adding that, "In T20 cricket, no team is easy. Our squad is young, motivated, and fully prepared for the challenges ahead.”
He added, "We are preparing a lot. The tri-series will prove helpful before the Asia Cup".
Shaheen highlighted a significant advantage for the team: arriving early at the venue.
"Our team has never gone to any venue this early before.
This venue and the tri-series will be beneficial. We have time to acclimatize to these conditions."
When questioned about rumors of discord within the team, Afridi firmly dismissed the speculation, asserting that the squad is united.
"We only hear talk of disagreement from the outside; there is unity within the team," he said, adding that "Even in a family, there are small and big issues sometimes."
He stated that external chatter is beyond their control and that the team respects everyone's opinion while remaining focused on their goal.
Speaking about his senior teammates, the pacer praised Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan as world-class players, while stressing the importance of backing emerging cricketers.
“I may be younger than Babar and Rizwan, but they are truly world-class. At the same time, the new boys are also part of our team, and it’s our responsibility to support them,” Shaheen emphasized.