In a recent media interaction, former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi has gone on record crediting the overall success of Indian cricket to the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Afridi highlighted how the IPL stage helped the emerging cricketers immensely in coping better with the pressures of international cricket by giving them exposure to the best available resources in the world.
“I think the IPL turned around Indian cricket. Their new players after having played in the IPL with top foreign players and having shared the dressing room with them are ready when they come into international cricket. They are ready to cope with the pressures at this level,” the former Pakistan captain was quoted as saying by PTI.
“I think the IPL changed their cricket and I think even our Pakistan Super League will do the same. Already we are seeing some good young players coming through the league. When you play with or against top international players before big crowds you learn to handle the pressure,” he added.
Afridi, however, was quick to point out that players must have a fair amount of experience in domestic cricket before they are exposed to a global stage like IPL.
Afridi meanwhile also stated that he plans to continue playing in the leagues until he is fit and his body allows him to perform.
“It is not just about your name in T20 cricket. It is about being on the field and being able to perform for your team,” he stated.
A report carried by PTI claims that Afridi does not foresee India-Pakistan playing bilateral cricket anytime soon.