Afridi says two-match ban enough, terms ICC decision 'harsh

Karachi, Feb 13 (UNI) Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi has termed the four-match ODI ban imposed on him by the International Cricket Council (ICC) as 'harsh', saying a two-match ban would have sufficed.

''I think it was harsh decision. It could have been a couple of ODIs ban,'' he was quoted as saying by the 'Daily Times' after his arrival from South Africa at the airport.

Afridi was banned for brandishing a bat at a spectator during the first one-day international against South Africa.

''I was furious at the anti-Pakistan remarks of a spectator. The code of conduct is very hard for players and the ICC should reconsider it,'' said the hard-hitting player, who was charged with a Level three offence under section C 2 of the Code.

However, the player vowed to come back from the ban and claimed the tour of South Africa would prove good ahead of the World Cup. ''I hope the conditions in the West Indies will favour Pakistan,'' he said adding thatt the performance of the Pakistan team was encouraging and the same team will get full rhythm before the World Cup gets underway.

''Our team will definitely win the World Cup. All the unfit Pakistani players would be completely fit before the World Cup,'' said a very optimistic Afridi.

Afridi will miss the crucial first match against the West Indies on March 13 and the second match against Ireland on March 16.

UNI