When it comes to Shaheen Afridi, don’t look to survive: Gautam Gambhir's advice to Indian batsmen

Gautam Gambhir has always been a star of the World Cups and the way he batted for India during his heydays, it was indeed a lesson to savour for the Indians. From mastering the likes of Sohail Tanvir in 2007 to reigning supreme against Lasith Malinga and co in 2011, Gambhir was at the forefront for India on big occasions.

The last time India faced Pakistan in the T20 World Cup, Rohit and Rahul couldn’t make much inroads against ace Pakistani fast bowler, Shaheen Shah Afridi. While Virat Kohli did manage to be in command, his knock as it turned out wasn't enough to propel India to a winning score.

As India prepares for another edition of the T20 World Cup with their opening contest slated against Pakistan at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, former Indian opener, Gautam Gambhir, opened up on how the decorated Indian batting go after Shaheen.

Talking about the right technique to nullify Shaheen, Gambhir said, “When it comes to Shaheen Afridi, don’t look to survive. Look to score runs from him. Because the moment you look to survive, everything becomes really small. Whether it’s your backlift, whether it’s your footwork, and obviously, in T20 cricket you can’t look to survive.”

He further added, “I know that he can be dangerous with the new ball, but again, irrespective, the Indian batters need to score more runs, get into better positions, and look to time the balls rather than to hit it. India will be fine because India has got the quality in their top 3 or 4 who can definitely take on Shaheen Shah Afridi.”

Since last year’s World Cup, Team India has collided with Pakistan twice in the Asia Cup, and both the teams have won one contest apiece.