"I’ve Always Admired Him" – Courtney Walsh Hails Shaheen Afridi as Torchbearer of Pakistan’s Pace Legacy

KARACHI: Former West Indies great Courtney Walsh believes Pakistan fast bowlers continue to maintain their global reputation, with Shaheen Afridi standing out as a leading figure in the current generation. Speaking during the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11, Walsh said the country’s long-standing pace tradition remains intact due to strong fundamentals and playing conditions.

Walsh pointed to Pakistan’s history of producing elite fast bowlers. He linked past legends with the current crop. He stressed that the ability to develop core skills and adapt to local conditions has helped sustain the quality across eras.

"I think the conditions here," he said when asked what makes Pakistani pacers different from the rest of the world.

"You have to have good skill sets, and you've got quality bowlers here from over the years. I mean, you go back, way back, from Sarfraz up till now, Wasim, Waqar, those guys. All those guys have been good fast bowlers for Pakistan, and the youngsters have come on, and they've learned their trade as well," he added.

Shaheen Afridi and Emerging Pace Options

Walsh singled out Afridi for his approach and execution, describing him as a bowler who relies on discipline and clarity in his role. He said consistency and simplicity remain key factors in Afridi’s effectiveness across formats.

"Shaheen is someone who I've always admired, the way he conducts himself, the way he plays, he's never given that attitude and just his own skill set and the pride that he plays when he plays for Pakistan and even in franchise cricket. And that's what you want to see in fast bowlers, and he has all those qualities."

He also noted the presence of other quicks such as Naseem Shah and Mohammad Wasim Jr, saying the depth in Pakistan’s pace attack remains strong.

Challenges of T20 Cricket and Coaching Role

Currently working as a coach in PSL 11, Walsh highlighted the limited preparation time in franchise tournaments compared to international cricket. He said players often arrive ready, making communication and planning more important than extended training sessions.

"It's a lot different because you don't have as much time with the players as you have with the international side. You come straight into the competition, so you have to sort of hit the ground running. And it's interesting. It's good to see because you've got professional players as well who know what they want to do and how to go about doing it. So it's more or less guidance and a lot more discussions than actually coaching."

Walsh also addressed the impact of T20 cricket on bowlers, noting that while conditions often favour batters, fast bowlers have adapted by improving control and execution.

"I'm happy. I'm happy to see what I'm seeing in terms of the amount of fast bowlers who have gone through the game and have done well. The game has evolved from the time I played until now. It's good to see. Good skill set has to be used."