Aqib Javed sees glimpses of Waqar Younis and Shahid Afridi in two current cricketers

Appreciating the rookies of the team, former Pakistan Head Coach Aqib Javed said that he sees a glimpse of Waqar Younis and Shahid Afridi in Hasan Ali and Shadab Khan, respectively. Since making his debut last year, Shadab has made an impact in more than one way. The Pakistani leggie has matured his game not just as a bowler, but has transpired as one of the best fielder for his side, as well as a dependable lower order hard-hitting batsman.

In an interview, praising the youngster, Aqib compared Khan’s abilities to star all-rounder Afridi who was their most iconic all-rounder till the time he played. Shadab showed off a combination of the three different skills he brings to the table on Pakistan’s Tour of New Zealand and hence the timing of the praise from Javed.

“Shadab is an outstanding talent, one rarely unearth players like him. He is similar to Afridi, as he debuted as a leg-spinner but emerged as a batsman and is an excellent fielder as well,” he said.

Pakistan cricket has got a lot of talent: Javed

“However, the pace of progress shown by Shadab has been remarkable,” he said. “Pakistan cricket has got talent like him after twenty five years,” Aqib added, as reported by Business Recorder.

Meanwhile, on Hasan, Aqib said that the fast bowler possesses similar abilities like the legendary Waqar Younis. He has now gained the reputation of swinging and seaming the ball regardless of conditions. He was the leading wicket taker in Champions Trophy and the leading wicket taker in ODIs in 2017 with 45 wickets.

“In less than a year, the way Hasan has emerged in international cricket was remarkable. He possesses similar abilities like Waqar.”

“He learned a great deal in very short time but most importantly, his confidence and energy level is very high,” Aqib added. “I think Pakistan is very lucky the way Hasan rose, as he is a complete package. He can bat as well,” said the 1992 World Cup winning squad member.

He also used the opportunity to acknowledge how the PSL has helped players earn a reputation. Playing alongside stars from all over the world, according to him, gives them the exposure of competitiveness and challenges.

“The players who are performing in the Pakistan Super League get direct recognition. This is because the competition level at the franchise based cricket is higher than international cricket,” Aqib said commenting on the PSL platform.