Shahid Afridi credits Imran Khan for choosing cricket over army

Former Pakistan cricket captain and renowned all-rounder Shahid Khan Afridi shared insights into his cricket career, personal life, and ongoing social work during his participation in the 17th International Urdu Conference at Arts Council of Pakistan on Friday.

Afridi, who rose to fame for his aggressive batting style, reflected on his childhood aspirations, revealing that he initially wanted to join the Pakistan Army. However, it was due to the influence of former cricketer Imran Khan that Afridi pursued a career in cricket. "If it weren't for Imran Khan, I wouldn't have become a cricketer," he stated during the event.

He also spoke about his upbringing in Karachi, describing the city’s people as professional, honest, and warm-hearted.

Afridi, who played for Pakistan for over two decades, recalled the challenges he faced, including receiving scolding from his parents for focusing too much on cricket. He mentioned how he spent a lot of time playing street cricket with tape balls in Karachi before realising his dream of representing the national team.

On the subject of cricket, Shahid Afridi shared that his decision to retire had been made several times throughout his career but was ultimately delayed due to his passion for the game.

He also discussed his leadership as captain, noting that he had to make tough decisions, including handling spot-fixing controversies. The former captain mentioned that he had communicated with the involved players and explained the consequences of their actions. 

Shaheen Afridi as a captain

Regarding current leadership in Pakistan cricket, Afridi expressed his opposition to the decision to make Shaheen Shah Afridi the captain, stating that if he had been appointed, he should have been given more time to prove himself. He also praised Mohammad Rizwan as an excellent choice for leadership.

In terms of the future of Pakistan cricket, Afridi said that while the country has abundant talent, much of it is being wasted due to lack of proper facilities, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He stressed the need for academies and better infrastructure to nurture young talent.

Afridi also spoke about his social work, revealing that after the death of his father, he shifted his focus towards philanthropy. His foundation, the Shahid Afridi Foundation, continues to provide assistance to the underprivileged, including a medical center in his native Kohat, which is expected to expand into a 16-bed hospital.

He also touched upon his recent ventures, mentioning his desire to see Pakistan stand strong in the upcoming Champions Trophy.