Want to perform like Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis: Shaheen Afridi

Lahore: Young Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Afridi has set his sights upon doing well against England in the longest format in the team's tour of the country later this year.

Pakistan will take on England in three-Tests and as many T20Is, starting August 1, following the conclusion of West Indies' three-Test series against the same opposition, which begins on July 8.

"We are very hopeful regarding this series. We drew the series in 2016 and then put up great performances in the Champions Trophy. Our track record in England is good and we remain hopeful (of a positive result)," Shaheen told reporters via videoconference. Shaheen has so far featured in eight Tests and picked up 30 wickets but he has already set his sights upon having a good career in the longest format like that of former greats Waqar and Wasim Akram.

"I have been focusing more on doing well in Test cricket because then only you are regarded as a fine bowler... like Waqar bhai and Wasim bhai," he said.

"They picked up so many wickets in the Tests. I am also aiming at doing the same and keep on performing for my team."

Shaheen also spoke about the rule changes put forward by the International Cricket Council in the wake of coronavirus pandemic. The use of saliva on cricket balls have been banned but they will be able to use sweat to shine it."Before us, West Indies will be taking on England and we will also keep a close eye on the series as to how they are working with the new rules.

"We have accepted all the protocols (put forward by the ICC) and will try to devise plans keeping them in mind," he added. IANS

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