Before Afghanistan second Twenty20 international match against India in Indore on January 14, cricket broadcaster Aakash Chopra issued a challenge to the players. The former opener for India voiced his concerns in the opening game of the series about Afghanistan’s conservative batting strategy and urged them to adopt a more aggressive style of play.
In the first match, Chopra—who is renowned for his direct views—questioned the intentions of important hitters Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran.
How are you doing, Afghanistan? Why are your strike rates so low given how much bat you have? Although Rahmanullah Gurbaz is an excellent striker, it appeared that he and Ibrahim Zadran were playing at a run-a-ball during the most recent game. According to his YouTube video, “It appeared that neither of them was willing to take a chance.”
Chopra lamented Afghanistan’s hesitant approach, pointing out that their batting lineup is quite good and that they don’t play as fearlessly or explosively as they usually do. He stressed,
“You connect Afghanistan with bold, freewheeling, explosive, and devastating cricket. Nevertheless, it’s not fun if they play hesitant cricket and appear a little meek. Gulbadin Naib was unable to even reach the bat.
The cricket expert recommended that Afghanistan alter their strategy and add a bowler such as Noor Ahmad to strengthen their bowling unit.
“If your hitting is excessive, either play a bowler and drop a batsman, or play with all your heart and adopt a slightly aggressive style of cricket. Play Noor Ahmad if you think he won’t bat and Gulbadin Naib won’t be able to. Fareed Ahmad bowls as well; you have him,” he remarked.
Play an additional bowler or bat vigorously. Aakash Chopra
Chopra emphasized that Afghanistan must play an extra bowler or use an aggressive batting strategy in order to chase or produce significant totals. Given the potential for scoring many runs at the Indore ground, he thinks it is imperative to have an unafraid mentality.
“You possess bowlers.” In order to achieve 200 if you get to bat first, you should either play an additional bowler or bat so aggressively that you also need to chase 200 if India scores 200. Since this ground is used to score more runs, you will have to adopt that mindset.”
In anticipation of the second Twenty20 International, Chopra said that the team winning the toss might decide to bowl first because of the anticipated dew in the second inning. He also alluded to potential modifications to the Indian team, including the return of seamer Avesh Khan in lieu of a spinner and the inclusion of Virat Kohli.
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