The recent performances of Ahmed Shehzad have added more roadblocks for him to cement a spot in the national side. After a string of disappointing batting, displays have affected the right-hander, he has pleaded his critics to not beat him with the same stick as they did with compatriot Umar Akmal.
The 27-year-old is baffled regarding the criticism which he has received after his recent failures with the national side. Regarding his poor run of form, Shehzad has now opened up for the first time. In October in Lahore, the right-hander was given a chance to prove himself in the T20I series against Sri Lanka, after being sidelined due to a drug ban. Nevertheless, he failed to seize the opportunity given to him to prove to himself. In the two T20I Internationals, he could score only 4 and 13 runs.
Shehzad, addressing a press conference in Lahore ahead of the seventh round fixtures of the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, opened up. He said that he does not want to blame anyone but himself for his failure.
“I cannot give excuses. I cannot say that I only got two matches and someone else got five of 10. I will try to do more next time whenever I get the chance,” Shehzad was quoted as saying.
Shehzad, the right-hander, who has scored 2605 runs in 81 ODIs stated that he was ready to grab any chances that will help him to prove his potential. Shehzad has also scored six tons at an average of 32.6 in ODIs.
“I got two chances. I think one should be prepared enough to avail whatever chances that come their way, be it one or two,” he said.
Don’t lump me with Umar Akmal: Ahmed Shehzad
Don’t compare me with Umar, Akmal Shehzad urged his critics. He said, “He has his own life, I have mine. I request that we are not get lumped together as a duo. I should be judged on what I do and on his conduct. It would also be unfair on him if I were to make a mistake but the blame was to fall on him.”
Shehzad added, “I am always trying to improve me and make a comeback to the national side, the opening batsman defended himself by stating. Many critics have considered that Shehzad’s career is on the brink of extension. However, he still thinks that he can break into the national side.”
