Shahid Afridi, the former Pakistan allrounder, believes the opportunity to play in the Indian Premier League [ IPL ] will benefit the Pakistan players, especially with respect to playing in pressure situations.

Pakistan cricketers featured in the inaugural season of the IPL in 2008 but haven’t been part of the tournament since. Afridi, who represented the Deccan Chargers, said that players like Babar Azam “would learn to play under pressure situations” if given the chance to play the IPL.

“The IPL is a big brand and I know that if our players like Babar Azam and others get a chance to play in it they would learn to play under pressure situations,” Afridi said as per Press Trust of India. “Unfortunately, due to the existing policies, our players are not getting that big platform.

“Our players are in demand in other leagues all over the world and the good thing is they have their own top league, PSL, to showcase their talent, gain exposure and share dressing rooms (with top players).”

Shahid Afridi made his international debut 24 years ago.pic.twitter.com/ak86RaBgQz

— Wisden (@WisdenCricket) February 26, 2020

Afridi also looked back fondly at his time playing in India, saying his overall experience in the country has been “excellent”.

“No doubt, the way I have enjoyed cricket in India, I have always appreciated the love and respect that I have gotten from the people of India,” he said.

“And now when I speak on social media, I get many messages from India and I reply to many people. I believe that my overall experience of India has been excellent,” he added.