Shaheen Afridi, the star pacer of Pakistan, has been rested for the upcoming two-match Test series against South Africa in a build-up to the ICC Champions Trophy, which starts on February 19. The 15-man Test squad left out Afridi, but he is still part of Pakistan’s ODI and T20I teams for the South Africa tour.
Shaheen Shah Afridi For South Africa Tests
Pakistan will miss their key bowler for the second Test series in a row when they take on Australia in the Test series commencing on December 26 and January 3. Afridi also missed Pakistan’s dominant 3-0 win over England in the home Test series. Though rested for Tests, the 23-year-old will play in the T20I series starting December 10.
🚨 Pakistan squads announced for South Africa tour 🚨
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) December 4, 2024
🗓️ 3️⃣ T20Is, 3️⃣ ODIs and 2️⃣ Tests from 10 December to 7 January 🏏
Read more ➡️ https://t.co/7wp7q1U7Yb#SAvPAK pic.twitter.com/3PYbvFfSpz
Is Shaheen Shah Afridi Preparing For Champions Trophy?
The decision to rest Afridi has sparked debate among fans and experts. Some have speculated that his exclusion may be due to form issues or potential internal team dynamics, with rumors suggesting a possible rift between Afridi and Test captain Shan Masood. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has clarified that Afridi’s omission is a precautionary step to ensure he is fully fit and prepared for the Champions Trophy.
Shaheen Shah Afridi: Pakistan’s Top Bowler
Afridi is very vital in Pakistan’s bowling line-up, especially in limited-overs cricket. He can make those early breakthroughs with his spells and hence becomes an asset for the team. The team management wants to keep him fit and avoid the heavy schedule going ahead into the Champions Trophy, hence resting him for the South Africa Test series.
Pakistan’s bowling will be missing a valuable asset with Afridi in the Test series against South Africa, so all other bowlers in the side need to step up. Pace and spin attack will form a crucial base for maintaining the competitiveness of the red-ball game.
Looking ahead, Afridi will be important for Pakistan in trying to build momentum going into the Champions Trophy. His rest speaks to a long-term strategy by the team: success in the premier ICC event is more important than winning the series on this tour.
