Afridi promises aggressive approach

Pakistan's flamboyant batsman Shahid Afridi, who has been a thorn in India's flesh on several occasions, has promised to maintain his aggressive batting style in the high-profile series against the arch rivals, beginning Friday.

Afridi said he is likely to bat at number six and will continue playing his natural game that has often paid dividends.

"I don't see any reason why I should change my style of batting. I have scored all my runs in international cricket by playing aggressively and would continue that in the forthcoming series. I don't know why, but I like to chase bowlers," Afridi said, on the eve of the first Test.

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"I have been told that I would be batting at number 6, which I think is a very crucial spot. But I am not overawed by that position and would maintain my natural aggressive style. I think that is also what the public likes. I promise, whatever may be the situation, you will find the same attacking Afridi," he added.

Afridi said he would not be targeting any particular bowler but would concentrate on scoring the maximum off the loose balls that come his way.

"My aim will be to hit out of sight any ball that comes on my radar because that is what I enjoy doing most. I don't know what is the feeling of the bowler who sees the sight of the ball landing outside the boundary line, but as far as I am concerned, I get immense pleasure."

However, Afridi emphasised that while clubbing the ball in his trademark style, there is never an element of arrogance or attempt to chide the bowler.

"The general impression may be that there is arrogance or I am making fun of the bowler. But that's incorrect. I do my job to the best of my ability and if the bowler suffers, I can only feel sorry for him. But there is never an intention to downgrade or insult him."

Afridi did not hide his preference for opening the innings but maintained that he is also comfortable at number 6.

"If you ask my choice, well, I would love to open the innings. But if the team wants me to bat at number 6, I am prepared. In fact, I have told the captain that he can promote me on the shortest notice, if required."

Afridi claimed that Pakistan is riding high on confidence and there is great unity in the team while India is "a team in trouble".

"I think we are head and shoulders above India when we talk about confidence, team spirit and unity. I haven't read good stories about the happenings in the Indian camp and the indicators I get is that they are a team in trouble.

"But I would not like to comment on their problems and instead would prefer to talk about myself," he added.

But the dasher warned that the series would be tougher for Pakistan than it seems.

"I agree that we have been playing better than the Indians recently, but this series is different and played under different conditions and environment. We can take inspiration and motivation from what we have achieved in the last 12 months, but we cannot live on it," he said.