Former Pakistan T20I captain Shahid Afridi said yesterday that he wishes to enter politics later in life, but would be focussing on his charity work for now.
In an interview with BBC Urdu on Sunday, Afridi said he is not eager to make a comeback to the 50-over format from which he retired after playing in the 2015 World Cup, having led the country when they reached the semifinals of the 2011 event.
The 36-year-old said that he would want to join politics after ending his playing career. “I wish to enter politics, however, some well-wishers have advised me against it,” he said. “In my eyes, a politician is a servant of the people and he should serve people,” he added.
Nevertheless, the all-rounder said that he can also serve people through his charity and social work. “I can also serve the people without entering politics through my welfare organisation,” he said.
The former T20I captain further said that through his Shahid Afridi Foundation, he is keen to establish a school for the less privileged.
During the interview, Afridi also quashed talk of his retirement, saying he will continue to play for Pakistan in T20Is.
“I wish to continue playing limited-over cricket, whether it is at national or domestic level or leagues, I think I am fit for the game,” he said.
Afridi is currently representing Hampshire in the England’s domestic T20 competition.
Earlier, the 36-year-old was not included in the boot camp ahead of Pakistan’s tour of England, with many pundits suggesting it was time for the flamboyant all-rounder to call time on his two-decade-long career.
Courtesy: Emirates 24/7
