Netherlands Cautious of Shaheen Afridi's Bowling Threat in World Cup Clash

 


Netherlands Cautious of Shaheen Afridi's Bowling Threat in World Cup Clash


Netherlands all-rounder Bas de Leede is well aware of the challenge they face in their opening World Cup match against Pakistan, primarily in dealing with star fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi. While the Dutch team has done their homework to counter Shaheen, they hope to perform better against him than they did against Australia's Mitchell Starc, who took a hat-trick in a rained-off warm-up match.

De Leede expressed the team's focus on Shaheen's threat, emphasizing their preparation and analysis. Facing Shaheen, who missed Pakistan's ODI series against them last year due to injury, will be a new experience for the Dutch team.

The left-arm swing of Shaheen Afridi and the pace of Haris Rauf pose a unique challenge for the Netherlands. De Leede acknowledged that Starc's performance made them cautious, and they aim to handle Shaheen better in their World Cup encounter.

Naseem Shah, the third member of Pakistan's formidable pace attack, was ruled out of the tournament due to a shoulder injury, leaving Shaheen and Haris to lead the bowling department.

The Netherlands earned their spot in the 10-team World Cup through impressive performances at the qualifying event in July. They are determined to defy the odds in India and have set their sights on reaching the semi-finals, even though they acknowledge the tough competition posed by bigger teams.

While reaching the semi-finals would be a remarkable achievement, the Dutch team is prepared to take on the challenge and play their best cricket. They understand that winning against one of the big teams will be essential to achieve their goal, and they are focused on making their mark in the World Cup.

Netherlands' cricket history in World Cups has been limited, with just two wins in their previous appearances in 1996, 2003, 2007, and 2011. However, they are determined to make this World Cup campaign a memorable one, aiming to surprise and inspire with their performance on the global stage.


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