Afghanistan have the strongest bowling attack in the tournament: Shan Masood

Pakistan opening batsman Shan Masood believes Afghanistan have the strongest bowling line-up in the ongoing Asia Cup. He also said that Pakistan would not take them lightly when they play each other in Friday’s Super Four encounter. Both the teams have qualified from their respective groups and will be locking horns in Abu Dhabi for Friday’s match, looking to kick off the Super Four round with a win.

Two-time champions Pakistan were handed a thumping by the defending champions India on Wednesday in their Group A match. Meanwhile, Afghanistan have fared beyond expectations so far, having defeated both Sri Lanka and Bangladesh convincingly in their group matches. The giants Sri Lanka have already been knocked out of the Asia Cup and Pakistan will have to be at the top of their game when they face the fast-rising team.

Birthday boy Rashid Khan starred for his team on Thursday with an all-round contribution. He scored a brilliant 32-ball 57, including 8 fours and a six and then came back on the field to pick up the key wickets of Shakib Al Hasan and Mahmudullah while also affecting a fantastic run-out at the back end of the innings.

“I think if you see the bowling attack, especially spinners, then Afghanistan has the best unit in the tournament. 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,” Masood was quoted as saying by Sport 360.

Rest day an advantage for us

Pakistan have the luxury of a rest day following their match against India. However, Asghar Afghan’s boys will face off against them within 24 hours of their encounter against Bangladesh. Shan Masood feels the lack of rest for their players could give his team the edge.

“Recovery is very important especially when you play day-night games. We had an optional practice and we focused on our skills and we will be a fresh unit and hopefully win against Afghanistan,” he added.

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