National T20 skipper Shahid Khan Afridi believes that though Pakistan suffered defeat in the recently held series against New Zealand, they are a formidable outfit and capable of shocking any best side in the world. "True our performance has not been up to the mark quite recently. But no one can downplay us as we have the potential to rise,"Afridi told APP.
Afridi, however, said that in view of the recent defeats it was imperative for players to get united and believe in themselves and their capabilities before entering in the World T20. "We have some very talented boys in our team. But still they have to show their talent and for that they need to perform," he said. He also expressed the concern about Ahmed Shahzad and Sohaib Maqsood's form and stated that both these batsmen needed to work hard on their batting. "Maqsood believed that he could perform well up the batting order. He was given the chance, but he has not delivered."
To a query he said the series against New Zealand had been helpful in identifying the grey areas. "We tried out various options in that series. It is true we have not been successful, but I believe we've learnt a lot. I think still we have the time and can plan for the world cup in a better way." Regarding Pakistan Super League (PSL), he said that it would prove a big platform for both seniors and youngsters to prove their mettle. "It will be a great event in Pakistan cricket. It can help our senior players to regain their lost form, whereas youngsters will get an opportunity to interact with international cricketers of repute and learn from their skills," he maintained.