Pakistan ODI captain Shaheen Afridi has stressed the importance of strong performances in Test cricket, saying success in the longer format would positively impact the team’s results across all formats.
Speaking at a press conference in Dhaka, Afridi said Pakistan’s goal is to become the top-ranked side in the World Test Championship, while acknowledging that current standings—hovering around sixth to eighth—are not encouraging.
“We have to show our best performance in Test cricket. If we improve in this format, it will automatically reflect in T20 and one-day cricket,” he said.
Afridi noted that while the team performed well in its recent series, it fell short of expectations in terms of results. He emphasized the need to convert performances into victories.
Highlighting conditions, Afridi said green pitches have suited Pakistan’s pace attack, with bowlers like Mohammad Abbas and Khurram Shahzad delivering strong performances. He added that spinners will also play a key role, stressing the importance of taking 20 wickets in Test matches.
He further revealed that players used the Pakistan Super League (PSL) as part of their preparation for red-ball cricket, underlining the team’s focus on improving its Test credentials.