According to local media report, Riaz said in an interview, "Obviously Shahid's a great cricketer with the kind of ability he has in the bowling and batting department. With a guy like Shahid Afridi leading the team in this format we have very high hopes that he will perform well”.

Though, Pakistan had lost the One Day International (ODI) series 3-1 to England. He further added, "We have this series now to perform better and secure a good series win. Hopefully we can go into it and hit form at the right time, we are determined to”.

Despite performing below expectations during the ODIs, Riaz was keen to point out that England deserved credit for the caliber of cricket they have produced.

However, Pakistan will seek a winning start to the three-T20I series after losing the ODI series. T20 first two matches will be played in Dubai and the final in Sharjah’s Sheyikh Zayed Cricket Stadium.