‘Best chance’ against Aussies: Afridi

LONDON: The flamboyant Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi sees a chance for his country to surprise Australia here at Lord’s, saying they are beatable as they are not as strong as they used to be.

Talking to the media here at the at Lord’s on Monday, Afridi said if Pakistan ever had a chance against Australia during the last ten years, “this is the time”.

“They are not as powerful as they were in the past but now they are beatable,” he added.

When asked whether the Twenty20 series success was the reason of his newly-found confidence, he said he it was more because true Australian greats are missing from their team.

Afridi admitted that Pakistan are a young and inexperienced team.

“The team gives a new look but all selected members are performers and have got the required talent to meet expectations.”

The all-rounder defended his decision to restart his Test career after an earlier decision to stick to the limited overs game only.

“I think after Yousuf and Younis, the county needed me.”

Pakistan captain showed no remorse when asked how he felt playing a ‘home’ series here in England. “I think that is the best one can do under the given circumstances. We would have loved to play the series at home because it always gives you an extra advantage.”

Afridi was also in no mood to remember the Oval controversy, saying that he has got new team and new management and wants a fresh beginning.

“That is the thing of the past. It is a history now. We have got a new captain, new team and management. What we want is to play positive and attractive cricket here.”

It was in 2006 when Inzamam-ul-Haq-led Pakistan team refused to continue playing after Australian umpire Daryll Hair blamed them of ball-tampering.

And Afridi also vowed to rid his squad of the disharmony that scarred their recent tour to Australia.

“The guys are united,” Afridi said. “It is a difficult job, especially with the different cultures, and the different cities. But the thing is I respect these guys and whatever their problems are I listen and talk to the management.”