JOIN USHis unhappiness stems from the recent announcement by the ICC that even if Pakistan, which lead the five-match ODI series 2-0 against the West Indies, manage to whitewash the series, it will not earn them a single rating point and they will still be placed at its current ranked sixth position.
"I can't understand this system. There should be some advantage for the visiting sides as winning a series is never easy for them no matter who they're playing against," Afridi told
"The Express Tribune" newspaper from Bridgetown. Afridi questioned the system that offers little reward against lower-ranked opponents. Even a 4-1 or 3-2 win against the ninth-placed West Indies means a drop in points for Pakistan since they are expected to beat the hosts.
"It's really difficult to prosper under the current ranking system. I have little clue what it is based on," Afridi said. Afridi is not the first captain to criticise the ICC Ranking System, which also drew criticism from former Sri Lanka captain Kumara Sangakkara who termed it as 'unfair'.
Afridi, however, said that despite the disappointment over the ratings system, his team remained focused on winning the series against the West Indies.
"We'll give our best to seal the series, which is our main focus. It will boost the morale of the young team." He also expressed his satisfaction over the performance of the youngsters on the tour.
"I'm happy with the performance of the young players and they are stepping up to the challenge," said Afridi.
Afridi said he is hoping for a better show from left-arm fast-bowler Junaid Khan, who made his international debut on the ongoing tour and has played two ODIs and a Twenty20 but is yet to take a wicket.
"It's not appropriate to expect a youngster to become a star overnight. He needs time and hopefully he would improve in the remaining matches."