Afridi criticises ICC for holding T20 WC next year

“There is just no proper gap between the two tournaments for us to enjoy our victory. I don’t know why the ICC has done this,but to me it seems cricket today is more like a business than a sport,” Afridi,who won the man-of-the-match award in both the semifinal and final,said on his return home on Wednesday.

The 29-year-old all-rounder also admitted that in spite of his stellar performances in the T20 World Cup,he was little disappointed at not winning the player of the tournament award.

Although Afridi was the star for Pakistan in both the semi-final and final against South Africa and Sri Lanka with back-to-back half centuries and wickets,Tillekaratne Dilshan bagged the award with his commendable show with the bat.

“I was not expecting them (ICC) to ignore me for the player of the tournament award. I had scored over 160 runs and taken 11 wickets. My fielding was also top class and I was surprised when I didn’t win this award,” he said.

Afridi,however,praised Dilshan for his performance and said the Sri Lankan opener’s famous scoop shot over the wicketkeeper’s head was a joy to watch.

Afridi said he was delighted to play a part in the victory,which brought smiles back to the faces of Pakistani people who have been living under constant threat of terror.

“I dedicate this victory to the displaced and troubled people of Swat in particular. I am happy that we could bring some joy to our people who deserved it after bearing so much,” he said.

The flamboyant right-hander also attributed his success with the bat to the confidence shown in him by captain Younis Khan.

“The captain (Younis) showed confidence in me when I told him I wanted to bat at number three. But when I got the chance I also knew my self respect and reputation was at stake. I knew this was my big chance to finally come good as a batsman and I am happy that I was able to do it for the team and my country,” he said.

Afridi also lauded Younis for his inspirational captaincy. “He (Younis) took all seniors into confidence all the time. At team meetings the seniors decided that whatever our differences were,on the field we must remain united and play for the country,” he said.