Why So Much Love For Shahid Afridi?

[gameovais]

Originally Posted by makaveli786 1. Afridi is a Bowling allrounder no matter how many runs he makes. 2. I dont think any fan has called Afridi a greater captain then Imran khan though uniting the team was a great achievement that shouldnt be taken away from him. But by your logic Imran khan shouldnt have been a captain either because he was a cheat? true or false? 3. I have never said he single handedly won us the 2009 world cup though he payed a major orole in us winning it. 4. I think they is no denying Afridi is a legend, whether you say for outside cricket or inside he is a legend. 5. He was mis-used i believe but failing as captain? With two 100's and leading wicket-taker in World cup 2011. Batting average has improved as captain and so has his bowling. so i dont see how he has been failing...

Afridi keeps changing his mind and so do his fans about what he is, in fact he changes his mind so often it's hard to know when he's in a particular mood. Some days he wants to play test cricket, other days he doesn't. Some days he wants to be thought of as batting all rounder some days a bowling all rounder. I mean it's difficult to know what he thinks of himself. But we'll wait till he changes his mind again and his fans too.

If Imran Khan cheated once, he should have got a second chance, if he cheated again, he should also have been axed from the side by the Pakistan board not the ICC. I don't know much about cricket prior to 92, I'm too young to know, though I have read up on the game and quite frankly, although the cricket was 10 times higher quality than it is now, it's a shame that they tampered so freely.

Uniting a divided Pakistan team is not a hard job really. Inzamam did it, Rashid Latif did it in 2003 and Younis Khan did it in 2009. Younis Khan perhaps did it 100 times better than Afridi and even went on to lead Pakistan to the trophy, he utilised the players much better than Afridi is using them now. Afridi is a defensive captain, no one has an issue with that, but Afridi did nothing special. Leading Pakistan to a World Cup Semi is nothing special, given the ability and skill of our players, it's very reasonable and realistic to expect a world cup win. So as good of a job as Afridi fans think he's done, he's got nothing to show for it.

You also say he united the team in a crisis, when has Pakistan cricket ever been out of crisis? Pakistan cricket is always in crisis, so again Afridi is not doing anything out of the ordinary.

Afridi played a major role in the 2009 playing sensibly, not slogging like a maniac, it was sensible ball striking, so he has the capacity to do it, he's shown it a few times, the question is, when he chooses not to (98% of the time) why is he not dropped?

You say his batting average has improved since being captain, that might well be the case, but by improving by 2/3 runs to push it up to 25 is of no real use. It's same crap stats before and after being handed the captaincy. His bowling is good, so then that brings the question, if he's a good bowler but batting like a tailender, what gives him the right to bat at 6/7/8? He should be 10 or in my opinon 11, until he shows he can play sensibly.

In truth this cheat should have been thrown out a long long time ago, had he been Australian, Kiwi, English or from anywhere else but Pakistan, he would have been kicked out. But only in our country is he allowed to continue to play.

[NO 1 AFRIDI FAN]

Originally Posted by zaid65 Most of them are infatuated ( infected) because of his looks and his cheating behavior. Razaq can do the same job, in fact he is a better over all player than Afridi but poor guy lacks the looks and he is honest.

So what if Afridi has the looks?
We support him because he looks good Happy now?

[NO 1 AFRIDI FAN]

Why so much love for Afridi?

Because of his amazing hair and looks
According to Zaid the mind reader

[gameovais]

Originally Posted by zaid65 Most of them are infatuated ( infected) because of his looks and his cheating behavior. Razaq can do the same job, in fact he is a better over all player than Afridi but poor guy lacks the looks and he is honest.

Funny you should mention his looks, I've been told by females that Afridi is actually quite an ugly guy. So not only are his fans of a low IQ, they also are attracted to beasts who look like beasts.

[No_Username]

Originally Posted by gameovais Funny you should mention his looks, I've been told by females that Afridi is actually quite an ugly guy. So not only are his fans of a low IQ, they also are attracted to beasts who look like beasts.

Those girls must be ...

[zaid65]

Originally Posted by No_Username Those girls must be homo...

Too late for deletion

So Afridi is good looking? Tell us more about him, ..

[Kray_jackson7]

Originally Posted by gameovais Afridi keeps changing his mind and so do his fans about what he is, in fact he changes his mind so often it's hard to know when he's in a particular mood. Some days he wants to play test cricket, other days he doesn't. Some days he wants to be thought of as batting all rounder some days a bowling all rounder. I mean it's difficult to know what he thinks of himself. But we'll wait till he changes his mind again and his fans too. If Imran Khan cheated once, he should have got a second chance, if he cheated again, he should also have been axed from the side by the Pakistan board not the ICC. I don't know much about cricket prior to 92, I'm too young to know, though I have read up on the game and quite frankly, although the cricket was 10 times higher quality than it is now, it's a shame that they tampered so freely. Uniting a divided Pakistan team is not a hard job really. Inzamam did it, Rashid Latif did it in 2003 and Younis Khan did it in 2009. Younis Khan perhaps did it 100 times better than Afridi and even went on to lead Pakistan to the trophy, he utilised the players much better than Afridi is using them now. Afridi is a defensive captain, no one has an issue with that, but Afridi did nothing special. Leading Pakistan to a World Cup Semi is nothing special, given the ability and skill of our players, it's very reasonable and realistic to expect a world cup win. So as good of a job as Afridi fans think he's done, he's got nothing to show for it. You also say he united the team in a crisis, when has Pakistan cricket ever been out of crisis? Pakistan cricket is always in crisis, so again Afridi is not doing anything out of the ordinary. Afridi played a major role in the 2009 playing sensibly, not slogging like a maniac, it was sensible ball striking, so he has the capacity to do it, he's shown it a few times, the question is, when he chooses not to (98% of the time) why is he not dropped? You say his batting average has improved since being captain, that might well be the case, but by improving by 2/3 runs to push it up to 25 is of no real use. It's same crap stats before and after being handed the captaincy. His bowling is good, so then that brings the question, if he's a good bowler but batting like a tailender, what gives him the right to bat at 6/7/8? He should be 10 or in my opinon 11, until he shows he can play sensibly. In truth this cheat should have been thrown out a long long time ago, had he been Australian, Kiwi, English or from anywhere else but Pakistan, he would have been kicked out. But only in our country is he allowed to continue to play.

Yes they was a time when afridi wanted desparately to play test cricket but was not selected but in 2010 he was pushed into it and thought he would maybe be able to curb his instincts, but obviously he couldnt.

Afridi has claimed he is bowling all rounder for atleast a few years dont know where you are hearing him say he is a batting all rounder.

I am guessing imran khan ball tampered on more then one occasion but would you have him thrown out of the team? Do you want to go ahead and make a thread against him for cheating and discredit him? please go ahead and do that now.

Inzi did unite the team no doubt but he also had fights with players aswell, moyo i believe and YK also. But inzamam was always going to have power over the team. Yk did initially have a united team but didnt they form a big group against him? not very united dont you think?

Semi-final was a good place for pakistan to reach as much as everyone wanted to win the world cup comapred to the team previous captains have played with i think Pakistan did an excellent job reaching where they did, beating sri lanka in sri lanka and ending aussies unbeaten 34 WC winning streak, losing only two mathes in the tournament.

Why is he not dropped? because im guessing selectors like alot of others know that he is more of a bowler and his batting is a bonus. When inzi was in charge what crisis? when Shoaib Malik? When YK? Afridi has had a massive match-fixing scandal but has managed to push through this and has battled through some hard tough tours and managed to give it a fight besides losing key players.

His average has improved by more then just 2 or 3 runs! Why does he not bat at 10 or 11? maybe because he is better at batting then the other tail enders? did that not cross your mind?

[Kray_jackson7]

Originally Posted by zaid65 Too late for deletion So Afridi is good looking? Tell us more about him, ..

Seeing as your the one who always talks about his looks and brings them into the thread why dont you tell us? maybe your 'sources' have some photos of him which they have gave to you? maybe thats why you havent been typing much recently...

[Fireworks11]

Originally Posted by miandadrules He is blessed with that support and I have no problems with that. What I do have a problem is when his fans try to make him out to be something he is not. Usually, by degrading another player. I believe he should be in the team, and I believe he should be captain but I don't believe he should be given a free ride to play irresponsibly.

No player should be degraded.

The team know how Afridi bats and fully back him to continue playing this way. Waqar dismissed his poor swipe against Aus in the WC by saying "what if it had gone for 6....".
As mentioned many times, he is a one-off and others don't get this treatment. After all, this is what has made him big. His bowling had only recently blossomed. I think he's realising at the moment that he wants a big score; he was visibly frustrated at his dismissal in the 3rd ODI. He can't control himself, almost fighting against his aggression.

However, it would not be a shock if he scores heavy on Monday, that's why you can't call him a bowler. No bowler will ever have a record of the faster century. He will always be considered as a brutal all-rounder.

[miandadrules]

Originally Posted by fireworks11 No player should be degraded. The team know how Afridi bats and fully back him to continue playing this way. Waqar dismissed his poor swipe against Aus in the WC by saying "what if it had gone for 6....". As mentioned many times, he is a one-off and others don't get this treatment. After all, this is what has made him big. His bowling had only recently blossomed. I think he's realising at the moment that he wants a big score; he was visibly frustrated at his dismissal in the 3rd ODI. He can't control himself, almost fighting against his aggression. However, it would not be a shock if he scores heavy on Monday, that's why you can't call him a bowler. No bowler will ever have a record of the faster century. He will always be considered as a brutal all-rounder.

I am sorry but that is a weak argument. Nobody should get special treatment, especially when they are not performing. Certainly not for 15 years.

What was Waqar suppose to say? My captain lacks basic intelligence and almost cost us the game?

[Prince_Pathan]

Originally Posted by hersheybud Thanks for standing up for afridi! Like you I started watching and following cricket because of afridi! Where do you live?

why do you want to know ? lol :/

i dont share such info man sorry because i dont know u lol

[Fireworks11]

Originally Posted by miandadrules I am sorry but that is a weak argument. Nobody should get special treatment, especially when they are not performing. Certainly not for 15 years. What was Waqar suppose to say? My captain lacks basic intelligence and almost cost us the game?

You have to look at the full package, his batting average is poor but he has 300+ wickets to his name. That's a great achievement in itself. If Afridi was only a batsman he wouldn't have this treatment.

Waqar defended Afridi, not a hint of frustration.

[CoolSERAZ]

afridi can be very entertaining when on song. unfortunately, the period between two brutal knocks has increased alarmingly. he plays pretty much like somebody playing cricket pc game at level 4-5. you might get 2-3 sixes. but you try a fourth one brainlessly and you might just get out.

[ShahidAfridi_rulez]

He bit the ball because he was angry now everyone nows his anger is very easy to come and atleast he didnt get money of someone to bite it.

[gameovais]

Originally Posted by CoolSERAZ afridi can be very entertaining when on song. unfortunately, the period between two brutal knocks has increased alarmingly. he plays pretty much like somebody playing cricket pc game at level 4-5. you might get 2-3 sixes. but you try a fourth one brainlessly and you might just get out.

Point is even those 2/3 sixes will only give you a max of 20 runs if you take a couple of singles. That 20 is pretty much his career average, so what is the use of the 2/3 sixes alone?

[Kray_jackson7]

Originally Posted by gameovais Point is even those 2/3 sixes will only give you a max of 20 runs if you take a couple of singles. That 20 is pretty much his career average, so what is the use of the 2/3 sixes alone?

of course 300+ wickets are useless...

[Fireworks11]

Afridi's likely to end up with 400+ ODI wickets. Now that would be a fantastic achievement for the fastest ever ODI century maker.

[hersheybud]

Originally Posted by Prince_Pathan why do you want to know ? lol :/ i dont share such info man sorry because i dont know u lol

well email to know me

[miandadrules]

Originally Posted by fireworks11 You have to look at the full package, his batting average is poor but he has 300+ wickets to his name. That's a great achievement in itself. If Afridi was only a batsman he wouldn't have this treatment. Waqar defended Afridi, not a hint of frustration.

So should all the bowlers get this treatment?

Why doesn't Razzack get this treatment?

[KingKhanWC]

After 15 years people are still asking why there is so much love for Sahibzada Mohammad Shahid Khan Afridi.

Because he is a cult hero for Pakistan.

Possibly one of the most talented cricketers of all time who hasn't even come close to reaching his potential. If he had a batting technique along with temperament things would have been very much different.

Even so he has given Pakistan fans plenty of highs including 47 in sixes against the old enemy India. Six is the ultimate cricket shot and he does it better than anyone, probably why he backs himself every time suffering from over confidence. Along with his fielding and unique bowling he is a great entertainer. Not many people can bowl 83mph leg spinners.

His cheating may have been silly but sportsmen try to cheat to benefit their team all the time in cricket. He got punished accordingly and since they weren't serious crimes the punishments were easy going. As mentioned he didn't sell out his country, that's the unforgivable crime.

He is a very good captain and this gets him into the team. His bowling alone shouldn't always guarantee him a spot in the team because there are other options which may be better.

Afridi will be loved long after he retires and by people who aren't even born yet, there is nothing one can do about this. :

[Fireworks11]

Originally Posted by miandadrules So should all the bowlers get this treatment? Why doesn't Razzack get this treatment?

Why should "all bowlers" get this treatment?

Razzaq won't get this treatment, no one will. You should know this by now.

[cricmylife]

Originally Posted by KingKhanWC After 15 years people are still asking why there is so much love for Sahibzada Mohammad Shahid Khan Afridi. Because he is a cult hero for Pakistan. Possibly one of the most talented cricketers of all time who hasn't even come close to reaching his potential. If he had a batting technique along with temperament things would have been very much different. Even so he has given Pakistan fans plenty of highs including 47 in sixes against the old enemy India. Six is the ultimate cricket shot and he does it better than anyone, probably why he backs himself every time suffering from over confidence. Along with his fielding and unique bowling he is a great entertainer. Not many people can bowl 83mph leg spinners. His cheating may have been silly but sportsmen try to cheat to benefit their team all the time in cricket. He got punished accordingly and since they weren't serious crimes the punishments were easy going. As mentioned he didn't sell out his country, that's the unforgivable crime. He is a very good captain and this gets him into the team. His bowling alone shouldn't always guarantee him a spot in the team because there are other options which may be better. Afridi will be loved long after he retires and by people who aren't even born yet, there is nothing one can do about this. :

Alaaat Lala..

[miandadrules]

Originally Posted by fireworks11 Why should "all bowlers" get this treatment? Razzaq won't get this treatment, no one will. You should know this by now.

But why? They all have better bowling records than Afridi, why shouldn't they get free licence?

Can you see my unease with your logic?

[miandadrules]

Originally Posted by KingKhanWC After 15 years people are still asking why there is so much love for Sahibzada Mohammad Shahid Khan Afridi. Because he is a cult hero for Pakistan. Possibly one of the most talented cricketers of all time who hasn't even come close to reaching his potential. If he had a batting technique along with temperament things would have been very much different. Even so he has given Pakistan fans plenty of highs including 47 in sixes against the old enemy India. Six is the ultimate cricket shot and he does it better than anyone, probably why he backs himself every time suffering from over confidence. Along with his fielding and unique bowling he is a great entertainer. Not many people can bowl 83mph leg spinners. His cheating may have been silly but sportsmen try to cheat to benefit their team all the time in cricket. He got punished accordingly and since they weren't serious crimes the punishments were easy going. As mentioned he didn't sell out his country, that's the unforgivable crime. He is a very good captain and this gets him into the team. His bowling alone shouldn't always guarantee him a spot in the team because there are other options which may be better. Afridi will be loved long after he retires and by people who aren't even born yet, there is nothing one can do about this. :

Since 2005, we have lost more ODI matches to India than we have won when Afridi has played.

[Prince_Pathan]

Originally Posted by hersheybud well email to know me hersheybud@gmail.com

no its ok man...


barring the weirdness


awesome kingkhanwc...great post...

[Fireworks11]

Originally Posted by miandadrules But why? They all have better bowling records than Afridi, why shouldn't they get free licence? Can you see my unease with your logic?

You can't compare him with the pacers. He is without doubt, in great bowling form and it wouldn't make sense to drop him for another bowler. That's why his batting has suffered somewhat, they know what he is capable of with the blade and with his bowling performances, it makes no sense to drop him.

[miandadrules]

Originally Posted by fireworks11 You can't compare him with the pacers. He is without doubt, in great bowling form and it wouldn't make sense to drop him for another bowler. That's why his batting has suffered somewhat, they know what he is capable of with the blade and with his bowling performances, it makes no sense to drop him.

Since when have I said to drop him?

My point is why is he being given free-licence to bat irresponsibly?

If anyone else batted like that they would be held accountable. Yet his fans excuse him even if it cost us countless matches.

[ads101]

Originally Posted by fireworks11 You can't compare him with the pacers. He is without doubt, in great bowling form and it wouldn't make sense to drop him for another bowler. That's why his batting has suffered somewhat, they know what he is capable of with the blade and with his bowling performances, it makes no sense to drop him.

him being a better bowler is no reason for him to drop in batting form.

He needs to focus on both, he's playing as a bowling all rounder. If he had nothing to offer with the bat, he would not have been persisted with for so long.

I am happy with his bowling form. He was our star player of the world cup. Me and I expect many other fans were immensely proud of him for that.

My annoyance due to his batting is however different. He has potential, and is able to bat properly. The man has 5 test centuries and a healthy test average. No excuse to play as a tailender. Yes he could stay in the team as a bowler, but the reason's he's stayed so long as he was an all rounder. He needs to repay the fans and selectors faith in him with delivering with the bat too.

I would not be unhappy if he was simply just out of form, for some reason bat wasn't finding ball etc. But that isn't the reason he's failing. He's doing the same thing regardless of situation, going all out and slogging first ball. Even in the last match, no slogging required he did the same. In that last test match he did the same, although he must of known deep down what he was doing was wrong. He needs to show some courage, and will himself to knuckle down and play a hard fought, long innings. He's capable of this.

I for one don't buy this theory that slog from ball one slog fest is all he's capable of. He's played proper innings, plenty of times, knows how to rotate strike, good against fast bowlers and spinners. He showed that in the asia cup against Sri lanka, if he really puts his mind he can churn out a fantastic innings.

[Fireworks11]

Originally Posted by miandadrules Since when have I said to drop him? My point is why is he being given free-licence to bat irresponsibly? If anyone else batted like that they would be held accountable. Yet his fans excuse him even if it cost us countless matches.

Well, free licence means undroppable. Most others would simply be dropped if they continuously failed with the blade but Afridi's bowling covers this up plus the occasional brutal innings.

Don't look at Afridi as a batsman, but rather as a bowling all-rounder. He has a tremendous fan base that won't alter their views even if he scores ten ducks in a row. His past heroics have played a part in this.

[miandadrules]

Originally Posted by fireworks11 Well, free licence means undroppable. Most others would simply be dropped if they continuously failed with the blade but Afridi's bowling covers this up plus the occasional brutal innings. Don't look at Afridi as a batsman, but rather as a bowling all-rounder. He has a tremendous fan base that won't alter their views even if he scores ten ducks in a row. His past heroics have played a part in this.

That to me is unacceptable.

Pakistan and her success comes first.

[1137moiz]

Originally Posted by ads101 him being a better bowler is no reason for him to drop in batting form. He needs to focus on both, he's playing as a bowling all rounder. If he had nothing to offer with the bat, he would not have been persisted with for so long. I am happy with his bowling form. He was our star player of the world cup. Me and I expect many other fans were immensely proud of him for that. My annoyance due to his batting is however different. He has potential, and is able to bat properly. The man has 5 test centuries and a healthy test average. No excuse to play as a tailender. Yes he could stay in the team as a bowler, but the reason's he's stayed so long as he was an all rounder. He needs to repay the fans and selectors faith in him with delivering with the bat too. I would not be unhappy if he was simply just out of form, for some reason bat was finding ball etc. But that isn't the reason he's failing. He's doing the same thing regardless of situation, going all out and slogging first ball. Even in the last match, no slogging required he did the same. In that last test match he did the same, although he must of known deep down what he was doing was wrong. He needs to show some courage, and will himself to knuckle down and play a hard fought, long innings. He's capable of this. I for one don't buy this theory that slog from ball one slog fest is all he's capable of. He's played proper innings, plenty of times, knows how to rotate strike, good against fast bowlers and spinners. He showed that in the asia cup against Sri lanka, if he really puts his mind he can churn out a fantastic innings.

Excellent post. THIS is the way to criticize somebody, not the useless crap that some posters have churned out recently (including OP)

[Fireworks11]

Originally Posted by ads101 him being a better bowler is no reason for him to drop in batting form. He needs to focus on both, he's playing as a bowling all rounder. If he had nothing to offer with the bat, he would not have been persisted with for so long. I am happy with his bowling form. He was our star player of the world cup. Me and I expect many other fans were immensely proud of him for that. My annoyance due to his batting is however different. He has potential, and is able to bat properly. The man has 5 test centuries and a healthy test average. No excuse to play as a tailender. Yes he could stay in the team as a bowler, but the reason's he's stayed so long as he was an all rounder. He needs to repay the fans and selectors faith in him with delivering with the bat too. I would not be unhappy if he was simply just out of form, for some reason bat was finding ball etc. But that isn't the reason he's failing. He's doing the same thing regardless of situation, going all out and slogging first ball. Even in the last match, no slogging required he did the same. In that last test match he did the same, although he must of known deep down what he was doing was wrong. He needs to show some courage, and will himself to knuckle down and play a hard fought, long innings. He's capable of this. I for one don't buy this theory that slog from ball one slog fest is all he's capable of. He's played proper innings, plenty of times, knows how to rotate strike, good against fast bowlers and spinners. He showed that in the asia cup against Sri lanka, if he really puts his mind he can churn out a fantastic innings.

Yes, ideally he should be hitting the straps with both batting and bowling and he does have the ability to do so as we all know. In ODIs, he's never really had a real purple patch like he did in Tests, his innings have always followed a similar pattern, hence the poor average after 300+ games.

[Fireworks11]

Originally Posted by miandadrules That to me is unacceptable. Pakistan and her success comes first.

Yes, it certainly does.

[miandadrules]

If Saeed Ajmal tries his heart out with bat, there is no reason for Afridi to hole out like he does.

[Fireworks11]

But Ajmal hasn't scored the fastest ODI century.

[miandadrules]

Originally Posted by fireworks11 But Ajmal hasn't scored the fastest ODI century.

So?

Trying to win a match is more important than any century, ever.

[insaaniyat]

Originally Posted by fireworks11 But Ajmal hasn't scored the fastest ODI century.

16 years ago, and you are rubbing it now? currently he doesn't evern deserve to bat at no. 11

[Fireworks11]

Originally Posted by miandadrules So? Trying to win a match is more important than any century, ever.

I know where you're coming from, it's hard to change your habits.

[Fireworks11]

Originally Posted by insaaniyat 16 years ago, and you are rubbing it now? currently he doesn't evern deserve to bat at no. 11

It's not about rubbing it in, unless you're a SL fan.

It still lives with him and will do, that's the bottom line.

[miandadrules]

Originally Posted by fireworks11 I know where you're coming from, it's hard to change your habits.

So you can understand when people say he puts himself ahead of the team.

[Prince_Pathan]

Originally Posted by insaaniyat 16 years ago, and you are rubbing it now? currently he doesn't evern deserve to bat at no. 11

harsh man...recently enough he made around 60 sumting off like 20 balls against newzealand...number 8-11 cant really make that?

[insaaniyat]

Originally Posted by Prince_Pathan harsh man...recently enough he made around 60 sumting off like 20 balls against newzealand...number 8-11 cant really make that?

Was that the same series where Amir and Ajmal almost pulled out a miracle win?

[hqmusik10]

lol r u kidding me? the first time he got to bat in an odi he hit a 100 off 36 balls

[1137moiz]

Originally Posted by insaaniyat Was that the same series where Amir and Ajmal almost pulled out a miracle win?

Nope, you're referring to 2009. This was 2011.

Seriously, consider your posts before posting them. They're getting progressively dumber. Nothing wrong with criticizing Afridi but the way you do it is just farcical

[insaaniyat]

Originally Posted by 1137moiz Nope, you're referring to 2009. This was 2011. Seriously, consider your posts before posting them. They're getting progressively dumber. Nothing wrong with criticizing Afridi but the way you do it is just farcical

No need for insult . The point was they were no 10 and 11 batsman.

[1137moiz]

Originally Posted by insaaniyat No need for insult . The point was they were no 10 and 11 batsman.

Yes there is. Every time there's any discussion you pop in and take an attemptedly sharp potshot at Afridi. Half the time or more it turns out to be inaccurate as well. Completely devalues the discussion. It's been happening for months on end now

[insaaniyat]

Originally Posted by 1137moiz Yes there is. Every time there's any discussion you pop in and take an attemptedly sharp potshot at Afridi. Half the time or more it turns out to be inaccurate as well. Completely devalues the discussion. It's been happening for months on end now

edit

[1137moiz]

Originally Posted by miandadrules So you can understand when people say he puts himself ahead of the team.

I see what you mean. I think he is a bit selfish regarding his batting though nowhere near as terrible as some of the people here, including OP, have stated. He has tremendous potential yet nearly always throws it away. As captain that's not on especially, though his bowling has been excellent of late. I hope he learns but that aspect is one thing that he DEFINITELY should work on. Getting out repeatedly to a rush of blood is simply unprofessional

[insaaniyat]

Originally Posted by 1137moiz I see what you mean. I think he is a bit selfish regarding his batting though nowhere near as terrible as some of the people here, including OP, have stated. He has tremendous potential yet nearly always throws it away. As captain that's not on especially, though his bowling has been excellent of late. I hope he learns but that aspect is one thing that he DEFINITELY should work on. Getting out repeatedly to a rush of blood is simply unprofessional

Now you are talking good point, especially when you are a captain

[1137moiz]

Originally Posted by insaaniyat Now you are talking good point, especially when you are a captain

I'll talk when people criticize Afridi in a mature manner

When they just take cheap, inaccurate potshots (no names) it's a different story

[roy420]

Originally Posted by gameovais Many Pakistani fans, both men and women adore Afridi for various reasons and hail him as a hero or a legend, but the question is why? Now I'm about to write all that I am about Afridi because he is the captain and the most popular amongst fans. 1. Afridi is a proven cheat, the very fact that he's been caught red handed on camera twice should be enough to prove this. Why has Pakistan stooped to such a shallow and poor level where they handed the captaincy to a cheat? Where else in world cricket are known cheaters handed the captaincy? Not only should he not be the captain he should have been banned from playing for Pakistan ever again. Everyone deserves a 2nd chance, no one can argue with that, but why should Afridi get more chances or more leeway than anyone else? 2. Why are so many Pakistani fans willing to overlook his selfish and immature nature because of some innings several years ago or the fact he hits 6s every other game. Why do Afridi fans keep producing the tiring and completely unacceptable excuse that it's his nature and it's the way he plays? Simply for his reckless and selfish approach to batting he should have been dropped 10 yrs ago and never allowed to represent Pakistan again. It's outrageous that any team should allow such selfish players to play for them, but in our case, captain the side, I mean seriously, how can any youngster improve their batting and play sensibly when the captain is holing out to mid on or mid off every innings. Is it any surprise that Umar Akmal under Afridi's captaincy has become such a mindless slogger too? 3. Shahid Afridi is a decent ODI bowler, nothing more, no one can deny that he's been good for us for a few years now, but if he's playing as an all-rounder which he is when batting at 6/7 and he flops, which he has since, well since I can remember, then why isn't he pushed down to number 10 or 11 where he belongs. I'm serious, he might make the side on his bowling (that's if you can overlook his cheating and selfishness - I can't and most honourable Pakistanis shouldn't either) but he doesn't make it on his batting, so why isn't he batting with the tail? Umar Gul and Ajmal are more sensible and reliable than Afridi. 4. Afridi is also a coward with a big mouth. No one who loves Pakistani cricket will ever forget the way he returned and then left Test Cricket last summer against Australia. It was an absolutely embarassing time for us. This coward ran as fast as a hare the moment he realised he couldn't handle Test Cricket. What is the Afridi fan's reply to this, at least he tried and at least he was honest about it. No seriously, did he try? Did he actually try? No he didn't. And about being honest, well some might call it being honest, but I call it being exposed, being exposed in a ruthless manner. On top of all this, he came back a few weeks later and said I knew about the spot fixing, if he knew why didn't he say or do anything? Why did this coward wait until it was all in the media before he opened his mouth. There was a time when I was immature and I liked Afridi because of his brainless slogging, but then I grew up and became a man and realised there's more to cricket than just entertainment, entertainment comes with players trying their hardest and fighting for their country. I realised this and opened my eyes to see at long last the truth, that our country is led by a corrupt politician, that our leaders in Pakistan are generally greedy and corrupt and now our cricket captain is also a selfish cheat. I would rather have a talentless and honest captain who contributes in no way to the game than ever have an irresponsible cheat. Question at the end of all this is, why do so many Afridi fans come quick to defend him, why do they overlook his attitude and behaviour, which no one can deny is disgusting and shameful.

Very interesting thread and funny comments. From my experiences Afridi fans are die hard..........U can write what ever logics you want to but they dont care and wont listen.
I have criticized him alot but i want him to change for the better but i have given up also. He wont change because whatever he is doing there a group of fans who love it and encourage him and he keeps on doing the same thing again and again and their are now new kids who are batting in the same slogging way ......... So i see this as a never ending cycle and i dont see any light at the end of the tunnel !!!
Its a never ending debate buddy so good luck !!!

[SAF]

Originally Posted by gameovais Funny you should mention his looks, I've been told by females that Afridi is actually quite an ugly guy. So not only are his fans of a low IQ, they also are attracted to beasts who look like beasts.

I highly doubt that. You either are making this up, or they were indians

[Blistering Barnacle]

The OP brings up solid points.

The fact is, though, that Afridi would be in the first 11 of most if not all T20 and ODI teams around the world.

[MR__KHAN__JI]

Originally Posted by roy420 Very interesting thread and funny comments. From my experiences Afridi fans are die hard..........U can write what ever logics you want to but they dont care and wont listen. I have criticized him alot but i want him to change for the better but i have given up also. He wont change because whatever he is doing there a group of fans who love it and encourage him and he keeps on doing the same thing again and again and their are now new kids who are batting in the same slogging way ......... So i see this as a never ending cycle and i dont see any light at the end of the tunnel !!! Its a never ending debate buddy so good luck !!!

+1

I TRULY hope that that isnt the case....

[Poison]

It's a bit strange that after 15 years people have still not understood that Afridi's influence on the Pakistan side has never been quantitative in nature. There was a very old thread which discussed Afridi's qualitative contribution in Pakistan cricket. For example, even though he took 21 wickets in the World Cup and unquestionably asserted his authority as captain of the Pakistan side in the WC, nobody can deny that we haven't seen a Pakistan side so united under one leader since the Imran Khan days (perhaps even the Inzi days, if you're an Inzi fan), working for each other collectively rather than working for themselves.

Everybody loves Afridi because Afridi quite simply is the personification of Pakistan cricket. There's no other way to put it. I realised a few years ago myself that no matter how much he frustrates you, he is absolutely brilliant. On the field and off the field, you cannot predict what the man will do. He may crack a few gigantic sixes then hole out trying to sweep an express pace bowler. He may start chomping on a ball even though he's had dinner a few hours before. It's the charisma, you can't draw your eyes away from the television whenever Afridi is playing. Once you begin to accept this, you're on the way to Afridi-ism.

[gameovais]

Originally Posted by Poison It's a bit strange that after 15 years people have still not understood that Afridi's influence on the Pakistan side has never been quantitative in nature. There was a very old thread which discussed Afridi's qualitative contribution in Pakistan cricket. For example, even though he took 21 wickets in the World Cup and unquestionably asserted his authority as captain of the Pakistan side in the WC, nobody can deny that we haven't seen a Pakistan side so united under one leader since the Imran Khan days (perhaps even the Inzi days, if you're an Inzi fan), working for each other collectively rather than working for themselves. Everybody loves Afridi because Afridi quite simply is the personification of Pakistan cricket. There's no other way to put it. I realised a few years ago myself that no matter how much he frustrates you, he is absolutely brilliant. On the field and off the field, you cannot predict what the man will do. He may crack a few gigantic sixes then hole out trying to sweep an express pace bowler. He may start chomping on a ball even though he's had dinner a few hours before. It's the charisma, you can't draw your eyes away from the television whenever Afridi is playing. Once you begin to accept this, you're on the way to Afridi-ism.

I don't love Afridi, I very much dislike him. I think his entire approach to the game is disgusting and the fans who love him are blind.

The whole lot of Afridi fans are blinded it's quite disturbing. There are fans who are brushing off his endless slogs as if they are nothing. There are even more fans dodging his attitude problems and his cheating because of his "charisma" or "popularity".

The guy is a cheat and a cheat should NOT be representing Pakistan. The guys is selfish and only thinks of himself, think of his selfish celebrations after every wicket. Such players need to play individual sport, not team sports. They most certainly should NOT be playing for Pakistan, no matter what they are capable of doing on the field. He is also a coward, 20-20 cricket and ODIs don't make a good player, else Yuvraj Singh and Yusuf Pathan might be considered greats too. Test cricket is what makes a player and Afridi did nothing substantial in test cricket apart from on flat tracks, so again overated would be an understatement.

The day Afridi retires will be the greatest in the history of Pakistan cricket, finally the players will learn to play like sensible mature young men and not like circus clowns.

[Poison]

Gameovais he is now batting at number 8. I don't know how lower you want him to bat before you will consider him a bowler. The people saying 'oh but no he can bat it's just his attitude problems' are adopting the same thinking of the so called 'blind Afridi fans'.

In regards to the cheating, cheating should not be used to describe the things Afridi has done on the cricket field. The real 'cheaters' are the individuals who sold out the country now, and sold them out previously. Afridi is a man of honour and is a patriot. In regards to the 'selfish celebrations' ... I have no comment. You sound like Ian Chappell there. LOL at calling his Test career over-rated, average of 37 which is more than respectable and he single-handedly won a Test match against India. Flat tracks argument - useless argument, you're just spouting now. His 'retirement' from Test cricket was not cowardice. What would Afridi fear by playing Test cricket? He does not enjoy Test cricket, and accepted he cannot play it and keep out individuals more worthy of playing Test cricket (poor decision IMO, he probably would have averaged 99.95 by 2015 or so)

And I'm quite sure you're in the distinct minority when saying Afridi's retirement will be the greatest day in the history of Pakistan cricket. Pakistan cricket has been brought from the absolute bottom of the bottom (England '10) back to a state where people are beginning to respect us again. After Afridi retires everyone (including you) will realise what we've been missing. Pakistanis really tend to do this with their legends (Inzi, Moyo etc)

[ShehryarK]

Originally Posted by gameovais The guy is a cheat and a cheat should NOT be representing Pakistan.

This statement makes absolutely no sense. Are you saying anyone ever caught for even minor cheating should be given a life ban?! Bizarre logic.

And Afridi is NOT "a cheat".

He cheated on two occasions amongst hundreds of matches that he's played in. On both those occasions, he (eventually) admitted his mistake, apologised, and on both those occasions he was given the FULL punishment possible, which he duly served.

Hence, he is now fully rehabilitated. There's a difference between relatively minor breaches of the Laws of the game, and full blown match fixing etc! For the former, we have suitable punishments within the Laws etc that should be properly applied (as they were for Afridi); for the latter, I agree that life bans are the only way forward.

What Afridi did is no worse than what countless other cricketers do (refuse to walk / claim false catches / sledging and abusing / ball tampering / picking the seam / eating mints and rubbing on the ball / jellybeans / dirt in pocket) etc etc etc. Its all a matter of degrees and of one's perspective.

If players were to be awarded life bans for these offences, the majority of current world players won't be allowed to play - now, that might be your position, but it won't be the position of most who bash Afridi.

Unless you are arguing for one Law for Afridi and another Law for everyone else?

[gameovais]

Originally Posted by Poison Gameovais he is now batting at number 8. I don't know how lower you want him to bat before you will consider him a bowler. The people saying 'oh but no he can bat it's just his attitude problems' are adopting the same thinking of the so called 'blind Afridi fans'. In regards to the cheating, cheating should not be used to describe the things Afridi has done on the cricket field. The real 'cheaters' are the individuals who sold out the country now, and sold them out previously. Afridi is a man of honour and is a patriot. In regards to the 'selfish celebrations' ... I have no comment. You sound like Ian Chappell there. LOL at calling his Test career over-rated, average of 37 which is more than respectable and he single-handedly won a Test match against India. Flat tracks argument - useless argument, you're just spouting now. His 'retirement' from Test cricket was not cowardice. What would Afridi fear by playing Test cricket? He does not enjoy Test cricket, and accepted he cannot play it and keep out individuals more worthy of playing Test cricket (poor decision IMO, he probably would have averaged 99.95 by 2015 or so) And I'm quite sure you're in the distinct minority when saying Afridi's retirement will be the greatest day in the history of Pakistan cricket. Pakistan cricket has been brought from the absolute bottom of the bottom (England '10) back to a state where people are beginning to respect us again. After Afridi retires everyone (including you) will realise what we've been missing. Pakistanis really tend to do this with their legends (Inzi, Moyo etc)

Afridi scored 3 100s in reasonably quick succession if I recall and they were on flat tracks, one of the 100s he scored was in a match where India were 400-0, so please don't say it's a baseless argument. It's not spouting out nonsense because his centuries were in India and Pakistan in high scoring games. In fact during those games pretty every batsman had an outrageous average. Younis was averaging over 100 so was Yousuf, Inzama was scoring runs for fun. All the Indians were scoring runs for fun as well. So an average of 37 for a top 6 batsman is very very ordinary.

You say he;s batting at 8, well why is he batting at 8? Why is he not batting at 11? He's a mindless slogger, this is proven time and time again and we got fed up years ago with it not just recently, so why does he deserve to bat above players who will play sensibly?

Dude why do all Afridi fans have to bring in the spot fixers to defend his cheating. This isn't about them, this is about Afridi. Yes they fixed and they got banned for it, 2 of them for life pretty much, the other for a long time.

Afridi did cheat. Here is the definition of cheat:

A person who behaves dishonestly in order to gain an advantage.

Under that definition, which is from the Oxford Dictionary, Afridi is most certainly a cheat.

Ian Chappell actually is correct in many ways about Afridi and Pakistan cricket, whilst it seems he did once like Afridi and saw potential in him, he soon gave up on him like most people have. Afridi's celebration is all "ME, ME AND ME".

His retirement from Test Cricket was full blown cowardice, he is the definition of a coward from the Oxford Dictionary.

Coward: a person who lacks the courage to do or endure dangerous or unpleasant things.

He meets that definition, he cannot endure unpleasant things. Whats your definition of a coward then? Perhaps someone like Kallis or Hussey, guys who won't play any big shots, but will fight it out for the country like men possessed when they are needed the most? Afridi ran off like the coward he is when the going got tough. You should listen to the press conference after that game, it will tell you all you need to know about Afridi and how the world's media were laughing at him and in shock and disbelief at yet another chapter in his useless career.

You say Afridi has brough back Pakistan from the dumps, but tell me, in the history of Pakistan cricket has there ever been a time when they are not in the dumps? Has there ever been a time in Pakistani cricket where any captain has not had to deal with major crisis'? How about Shoaib Malik captaining Pakistan after the 2007 WC disaster and Bob Woolmer's death, was that not a crisis? In fact Shoaib Malik led Pakistan to the world cup final in 20-20, why is he not hailed as a hero if Afridi is for taking us just to the semi?

Thankfully as a poster mentioned above, Malik is not hailed for that episode and unfortunately Afridi will continue to be hailed as a great captain for doing nothing special. As if beating a crap NZ side is an achievement. Afridi didn't even beat SA or Eng and people said that was a great performance by him as leader.

[No_Username]

Your hate for Afridi is unbeleivable. I seriously believe you should apply for Indian nationality, why support Pakistan cricket if you can't manage to support the captain.


I wouldn't be suprised if you are a Indian.

[gameovais]

Originally Posted by ShehryarK This statement makes absolutely no sense. Are you saying anyone ever caught for even minor cheating should be given a life ban?! Bizarre logic. And Afridi is NOT "a cheat". Hence, he is now fully rehabilitated. There's a difference between relatively minor breaches of the Laws of the game, and full blown match fixing etc! What Afridi did is no worse than what countless other cricketers do (refuse to walk / claim false catches / sledging and abusing / ball tampering / picking the seam / eating mints and rubbing on the ball / jellybeans / dirt in pocket) etc etc etc. Its all a matter of degrees and of one's perspective. If players were to be awarded life bans for these offences, the majority of current world players won't be allowed to play - now, that might be your position, but it won't be the position of most who bash Afridi. Unless you are arguing for one Law for Afridi and another Law for everyone else?

All cheats should be banned. Like I said above, everyone should be given a 2nd chance, that is their opportunity to redeem themselves and get "rehabiliatated", but Afridi obviously hadn't because otherwise the ball biting incident wouldn't have happened.

You mention sledging as cheating, using the Oxford Dictionary definition it is not. Nor is eating mints and rubbing the ball if it is actually allowed by law. Until it becomes illegal to shine the ball with spit, those who use mints and chewing gum are well within their right to do so.

Please don't label things which clearly are not cheating as cheating.

What Afridi did was cheating and HE IS A CHEAT by the truest definition of the term. He and everyone else in sport who cheats, should be given a second chance, but that's it. If we continue to let cheats play and even worse let them captain our national sides, how will our youngsters grow up and be honest sportsmen and human beings.

[gameovais]

Originally Posted by No_Username Your hate for Afridi is unbeleivable. I seriously believe you should apply for Indian nationality, why support Pakistan cricket if you can't manage to support the captain. I wouldn't be suprised if you are a Indian.

Shut up dude. I'm more of a Pakistan fan than most of you lot are. It's part of the reason I opened this thread and continue to post in it. It's my love for Pakistan and desire to see them win that is asking for the likes of Afridi to never play for Pakistan ever.

I would rather have 11 honest untalented players who do not cheat and portray Pakistan in good light, even if Pakistan never wins a game, than people like Afridi.

[No_Username]

^Your wish can never be granted.

[Poison]

I give up, I have better things to do than argue with people who are honestly blinded. You sound like a moderately intelligent person perhaps, but anyone who disagrees with ShehryarK's line of thinking as above is clearly blinded. I don't know why you hate Afridi so much, I seem to recall you posted that you weren't going to follow cricket anymore because it was fixed or something ... why are you still posting?

[Indiafan]

Face it, he didnt have millions of fans and those like Poison defending him on this thread didn't become his fans because of his bowling. His renewed bowling form has just allowed them to defend Afridi's place in the team but is not the reason for his fandom at all. It was his explosive batting and showmanship that won him so many fans
He is a legend in T20 and arguably the most valuable T20 player but again thats something which happened very recently . So why does he have so many fans?

Despite his average ODI performances, for some time after the stalwarts retired, he was someone who provided a lot of excitement and a bit of hope to the Pakistani fans. Even when he defied the laws once in a while, he was always seen to have done it for his country and is also considered one of the honest players in the country. For all these reasons, and in the absence of players of the stature of Imran or Wasim in the current team, I dont find it very surprising that he has so many fans. He has been one constant for Pakistan right from his debut, surviving so many scandals around him, from when the team was doing well to when it was at its nadir. Legends retired around him and new talents like Amir came and went and when you checked the team sheet, it was Afridi's name which was most recognisable to any cricket fan anywhere.

IMO YK was the hero Pakistan needed and almost had, but he didn't have the vision to stand up when needed, nor the farsight to compromise and concede temporary ground for the future good of the team. He could have used the T20 victory as Pakistani captain to gain more grounds with PCB and unite the team in all formats. Instead he retired immediately from T20s

I really sympathize (though not always openly) with the average Pak fan. The recent years must have been hell for them. These same fans grew up watching a legendary team they fell in love with and some of the most talented players to grace the game, And I am amazed at the stoicness and passion still shown by most of them. So, if you were a Pakistan fan, whom would you turned to in this hour? Younis who quit when needed? Yousuf, who served consistantly for a while but had no charisma, was never a leader and on a couple of occasions behaved like a spoiled child? Aktar, who was out of the team more than in? A newcomer like Misbah or youngsters like Akmal? Of course its Afridi and Afridi alone who has been constant through it all

Though I like Kohli's batting, I like seeing Dravid batting more. Because I have seen him for years and the bond has grown over the years. Its a similar case with Afridi and Pakistan. He might be a flawed hero, but ATM he is the only hero I see in the current Pakistani line-up. I might personaly not like him but I can wager, if I was Pakistani fan, I would be equally passionate about Afridi

[No_Username]

This thread should be closed, can't bare the stupid arguments given.


Geo aur gine do...

[No_Username]

Originally Posted by Indiafan Face it, he didnt have millions of fans and those like Poison defending him on this thread didn't become his fans because of his bowling. His renewed bowling form has just allowed them to defend Afridi but is not the reason for his fandom at all. It was his explosive batting and showmanship that won him so many fans He is a legend in T20 player and arguably the most valuable T20 player but again thats something which happened very recently . So why does he have so many fans? Despite his average ODI performances, for some time after the stalwarts retired, he was someone who provided a lot of excitement and a bit of hope to the Pakistani fans. Even when he defied the laws once in a while, he was always seen to have done it for his country and is also considered one of the honest players in the country. For all these reasons, and in the absence of players of the stature of Imran or Wasim in the current team, I dont find it very surprising that he has so many fans. He has been one constant for Pakistan right from his debut, surviving so many scandals around him, from when the team was doing well to when it was at its nadir. Legends retired around him and new talents like Amir came and went and when you checked the team sheet, it was Afridi's name which was most recognisable to any cricket fan anywhere. IMO YK was the hero Pakistan needed and almost had, but he didn't have the vision to stand up when needed, nor the farsight to compromise and concede temporary ground for the future good of the team. He could have used the T20 victory as Pakistani captain to gain more grounds with PCB and unite the team in all formats. Instead he retired immediately I really sympathize (though not always openly) with the average Pak fan. The recent years must have been hell for them. These same fans grew up watching a legendary team they fell in love with and some of the most talented players to grace the game, And I am amazed at the stoicness and passion still shown by most of them. So, if you were a Pakistan fan, whom would you turned to in this hour? Younis who quit when needed? Yousuf, who served consistantly for a while but was never a leader and on a couple of occasions behaved like a spoiled child. Aktar, who was out of the team more than in. A newcomer like Misbah or youngsters like Akmal? Of course its Afridi and Afridi alone who has been constant through it all Though I like Kohli's batting, I like seeing Dravid batting more. Because I have seen him for years and the bond has grown over the years. Its a similar case with Afridi and Pakistan. He might be a flawed hero, but ATM he is the only hero see in the Pakistani line-up. I might personaly not like him but I can wager, if I was Pakistani fan, I would be equally passionate about Afridi

Even Indians are better than gameovais.

Good balanced post

[gameovais]

Originally Posted by Poison I give up, I have better things to do than argue with people who are honestly blinded.

No I think you give up because you have no response to the definitions of cheat and coward which I've given. Perhaps I should add another which suits Afridi.

Selfish: Lacking consideration for others; concerned chiefly with one's own personal profit or pleasure.

Does Afridi not fall into this category with his batting for the last 15 yrs? Does Afridi not meet the actual definitions of the 3 words I've used to describe him?

It's hard to argue with the actual definitions of the words I've used.

He's not the only one, I've stated in the past how Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammed Asif (prior to the spot fixing) should never be allowed to play for Pakistan again. Thankfully we'll never see them again.

[Poison]

Cliffs for the gameovais line of thinking throughout this thread

1. Afridi is a bad batsman and a mediocre bowler [factually incorrect, Pakistan's highest run scorer since January 2010 and highest wicket taker (if i'm not mistaken), while bearing the increased pressure of captaincy]

2. He cheated twice and should never play again [Plain illogical argument]

3. He is selfish because he celebrates with his arms in the air ( ??!?? )

[No_Username]

Originally Posted by gameovais No I think you give up because you have no response to the definitions of cheat and coward which I've given. Perhaps I should add another which suits Afridi. Selfish: Lacking consideration for others; concerned chiefly with one's own personal profit or pleasure. Does Afridi not fall into this category with his batting for the last 15 yrs? Does Afridi not meet the actual definitions of the 3 words I've used to describe him? It's hard to argue with the actual definitions of the words I've used. He's not the only one, I've stated in the past how Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammed Asif (prior to the spot fixing) should never be allowed to play for Pakistan again. Thankfully we'll never see them again.

Afridi plays for his fans and bring them excitement. Which we don't always get.

How does that match your definition of selfish?

You are seriously obsessed with Afridi, start enjoying things rather than moaning all the time!!

[Poison]

Originally Posted by gameovais No I think you give up because you have no response to the definitions of cheat and coward which I've given. Perhaps I should add another which suits Afridi. Selfish: Lacking consideration for others; concerned chiefly with one's own personal profit or pleasure. Does Afridi not fall into this category with his batting for the last 15 yrs? Does Afridi not meet the actual definitions of the 3 words I've used to describe him? It's hard to argue with the actual definitions of the words I've used. He's not the only one, I've stated in the past how Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammed Asif (prior to the spot fixing) should never be allowed to play for Pakistan again. Thankfully we'll never see them again.

No. Afridi has said more than a few times that he cannot actually control himself while batting, it's a flaw in his game but certainly does not point toward him being a coward. You may point to that definition of selfish to label any player who celebrates any milestone while playing cricket [raising the bat for 50, 100; doing sadja etc], so again you're factually incorrect. Either that or selfish is an endemic characteristic of all cricket players.

And your 'cheat' argument has already been torn apart above.

[Poison]

And no, I didn't give up because I have no response, it's because arguing with you is like arguing with a brick wall, or zaid65. A pointless exercise good for people who enjoy arguing with a lot of time on their hands, an excess of which I don't particularly possess at the current time.

[gameovais]

Originally Posted by Poison Cliffs for the gameovais line of thinking throughout this thread 1. Afridi is a bad batsman and a mediocre bowler [factually incorrect, Pakistan's highest run scorer since January 2010 and highest wicket taker (if i'm not mistaken), while bearing the increased pressure of captaincy] 2. He cheated twice and should never play again [Plain illogical argument] 3. He is selfish because he celebrates with his arms in the air ( ??!?? )

1. He averages 34.02 in ODIs with the ball. He had taken 315 wickets in 323 games, that's less than a wicket per ball. Whilst his bowling has improved, his overall figures are ordinary. You'll see Sami (one of the worst bowlers of all time) has better stats. He may well be the highest run getter, but his average is still appalling. He averages 25, so it means he's only the leading run scorer because everyone else in our side is a crap batsman (most are) or because he's played more games than most of the others. Either way his average of 26/27 during that time is still unimpressive.

2. Of course. Tell me what would happen to someone in a normal job if they cheated or did something similar twice. They would be fired. Why should cricket players be treated any differently? A cheat is a cheat and should be handed severe punishment to set an example.

3. He is selfish because of the way he plays for himself, his batting for 15 years is enough to demonstrate this selfishness.

[gameovais]

Originally Posted by Poison And your 'cheat' argument has already been torn apart above.

So under the correct definition of the word Afridi is not a cheat?

By dancing on the wicket in that Faisalabad game Afridi did not behave dishonestly in order to gain an advantage.?

By biting the ball Afridi did not behave dishonestly in order to gain an advantage.?

I fail to see how I've been torn apart when you guys don't even know the meaning of the words being used.

Ask anyone about the word cheat and whether Afridi's actions fall into that category and they will say yes.

[No_Username]

Originally Posted by gameovais 1. He averages 34.02 in ODIs with the ball. He had taken 315 wickets in 323 games, that's less than a wicket per ball. Whilst his bowling has improved, his overall figures are ordinary. You'll see Sami (one of the worst bowlers of all time) has better stats. He may well be the highest run getter, but his average is still appalling. He averages 25, so it means he's only the leading run scorer because everyone else in our side is a crap batsman (most are) or because he's played more games than most of the others. Either way his average of 26/27 during that time is still unimpressive. 2. Of course. Tell me what would happen to someone in a normal job if they cheated or did something similar twice. They would be fired. Why should cricket players be treated any differently? A cheat is a cheat and should be handed severe punishment to set an example. 3. He is selfish because of the way he plays for himself, his batting for 15 years is enough to demonstrate this selfishness.

You make no sense, if there are crap batsmens in the team and have performed worse than him then it should be them getting dropped, not afridi!

[No_Username]

Originally Posted by gameovais So under the correct definition of the word Afridi is not a cheat? By dancing on the wicket in that Faisalabad game Afridi did not behave dishonestly in order to gain an advantage.? By biting the ball Afridi did not behave dishonestly in order to gain an advantage.? I fail to see how I've been torn apart when you guys don't even know the meaning of the words being used. Ask anyone about the word cheat and whether Afridi's actions fall into that category and they will say yes.

They do fall in the cheat category, but he's not the only one!

[gameovais]

Originally Posted by Poison No. Afridi has said more than a few times that he cannot actually control himself while batting, it's a flaw in his game but certainly does not point toward him being a coward.

Oh but yous ee Afridi has shown that he can control himself. He showed in 2 innings last year and during the T20 WC that he can control himself and he can build an innings. So even Afridi doesn't know what he can and cannot do.

It's simple really, if he can't control himself, then he shouldn't play. You could use the same argument with every player in every sport, they can't control themselves.

Lol @ not being able to control himself, almost like someone else is in control of Afridi's mind. Total and utter rubbish, everyone can control themselves and everyone should be held accoutable for all the actions they do. Such a poor excuse "he can't control himself" lol.

[Poison]

Originally Posted by gameovais 1. He averages 34.02 in ODIs with the ball. He had taken 315 wickets in 323 games, that's less than a wicket per ball. Whilst his bowling has improved, his overall figures are ordinary. You'll see Sami (one of the worst bowlers of all time) has better stats. He may well be the highest run getter, but his average is still appalling. He averages 25, so it means he's only the leading run scorer because everyone else in our side is a crap batsman (most are) or because he's played more games than most of the others. Either way his average of 26/27 during that time is still unimpressive. 2. Of course. Tell me what would happen to someone in a normal job if they cheated or did something similar twice. They would be fired. Why should cricket players be treated any differently? A cheat is a cheat and should be handed severe punishment to set an example. 3. He is selfish because of the way he plays for himself, his batting for 15 years is enough to demonstrate this selfishness.

1. Quote me his average for the last 3 years and furthermore, quote me his average in international world tournaments. You may call Afridi crap because of his average, but he is the definition of a big game player.

2. Cricket is completely different. There is a SYSTEM in cricket whereby punishments are meted out for indiscretions which may be classified as cheating in your books, but are minor indiscretions as per the law of the sport. What about consistent 'cheaters' who disobey the laws of the game by not playing in accordance with the required over-rate? You may say 'oh ball tampering is a vastly more serious offence' ... is it really? AT ALL? Afridi got a TWO match ban for ball tampering. Afridi has served his punishments and does not deserve to carry this false stigma associated with the word 'cheater'

3. As above, he does not bat for himself, he cannot literally control himself. Drop him for his batting but he's our best bowler right now. By a DISTANCE. You argued somewhere up there in that babble that he should be batting number 11 instead of number 8 ... again, illogical reasoning given he averages much more than anybody batting below him and has the propensity to score big runs from time to time.

[Poison]

Originally Posted by gameovais Oh but yous ee Afridi has shown that he can control himself. He showed in 2 innings last year and during the T20 WC that he can control himself and he can build an innings. So even Afridi doesn't know what he can and cannot do. It's simple really, if he can't control himself, then he shouldn't play. You could use the same argument with every player in every sport, they can't control themselves. Lol @ not being able to control himself, almost like someone else is in control of Afridi's mind. Total and utter rubbish, everyone can control themselves and everyone should be held accoutable for all the actions they do. Such a poor excuse "he can't control himself" lol.

You see it would be unreasonable to assume he cannot control himself if he attempting to hit the moon once every 10 or so innings. But he goes for the moon-shot nearly every innings, and as you can see by his reactions (more recently, as captain), he feels bad when he does play those shots and get out. And LOL you're going against your own logic there, he played 2/400 innings where he was calm and suddenly you believe that he can play calmly; can you not see how your reasoning is hypocritical?

[No_Username]

@gameovais

Why so much( x million) hate for Afridi?