Shaheen Afridi rejects concerns over increased workload

Pakistan's pace spearhead Shaheen Afridi has shunned all doubts over a potential issue of increased workload as he prepares himself for the Zimbabwe series.

Shaheen's mediocre performances in the South Africa T20Is, where he bagged just three scalps in four games and conceded runs at an economy rate of just under 9, has prompted criticism on the team management for not resting the left-armer.

However, Shaheen has addressed the possible fatigue problems by mentioning the fact that he managed to get ample rest as a consequence of the postponement of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) midway through the season.

"I am enjoying my cricket and am trying to perform for my team. The physio and trainer both are keeping a keen eye on my workload so it is not a concern for me," he said in a video uploaded by the PCB.

"I was given rest after the PSL and get proper time off whenever it is required," Shaheen added.

Earlier this week, Pakistan bowling coach Waqar Younis also shared his thoughts on the debate regarding the 21-year-old's bowling burden and reassured that his fitness was being closely monitored.

While Shaheen's T20I record has not been ideal of late, his ODI fortunes have shone brightly as he recently attained his career-best ranking (11) in the format.

Commenting on Pakistan's relatively inexperienced bowling combination, Shaheen was excited by some dynamic speedsters in the mix, who brought an element of vigour to the side.

"Pakistan team has a young bowling unit and all of us are familiar with each other, having played our cricket together. The team is injected with a lot of energy due to the presence of fast bowlers like Hasan Ali, Haris Rauf and Mohammad Hasnain, which bodes well for our prospects," he stated.

"We've played good cricket in South Africa and won both the series there. We are looking forward to earning the same result here by giving our 100%," Shaheen optimistically claimed in anticipation of the Zimbabwe assignment.

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