Shan Masood has described Afghanistan’s bowling attack as the strongest in the Asia Cup and insists Pakistan will not take them lightly ahead of their Super Four match on Friday.
The two nations make the long trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi as they look to begin the stage on a winning note after qualifying from their respective group.
Former champions Pakistan will be aiming to prove Wednesday’s eight-wicket loss to India was just a blip as they look to keep their dream of securing a third Asian title alive. However, they face a tough task against an Afghanistan side who eliminated five-time winners Sri Lanka on Monday. And batsman Masood admits his team will have to be at the top of their game to stop Rashid Khan and Co.
“I think if you see the bowling attack, especially spinners, then Afghanistan has the best unit in the tournament,” said the 28-year-old on Thursday.
Pakistan look to get back to winning ways after India loss
“In UAE conditions, they have played as much cricket here as we have played. We will not take them lightly at all, especially after how they beat a good team like Sri Lanka. Afghanistan is a very good opposition and our aim is to focus on our strengths while negating theirs.”
While Pakistan will have a day’s rest, Afghanistan will be playing back-to-back matches following their clash against Bangladesh on Thursday evening.
And Masood insists the extra time off will be a big advantage to his side.
“Recovery is very important especially when you play day-night games,” he added. “We had optional practice and we focused on our skills and we will be a fresh unit and hopefully win against Afghanistan.”