Is Shaheen Afridis Test Career On The Line After Shocking Exclusion

Karachi, Jan 12 (PTI) The future of Pakistan’s premier fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi in red-ball cricket has come under a cloud after he was sidelined for the two-Test series against the West Indies at home. Shaheen has now either been dropped, sidelined or “rested” for eight out of Pakistan’s last 12 Tests since early 2022, sparking concerns about his role in the team.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has stated that Shaheen is being rested to manage his workload, but insiders claim that the decision to exclude him from the series against the West Indies is a clear indication that his position in the team is under threat. Shaheen’s exclusion has sent shockwaves through the cricket community, with many fans and experts questioning the PCB’s decision.

Shaheen has been Pakistan’s most successful fast bowler in recent years, taking 99 wickets in 25 Tests at an average of 25.36. However, his form has dipped in recent months, and he has struggled to make an impact in the Test series against England and New Zealand. Despite this, his exclusion from the series against the West Indies has come as a surprise, given his reputation as one of the most talented fast bowlers in the world.

The PCB’s decision to rest Shaheen has also raised questions about the team’s strategy and selection policy. With the Test series against the West Indies being a crucial one for Pakistan, many fans and experts are wondering why the team’s best fast bowler has been left out. The PCB has stated that the decision to rest Shaheen was taken to ensure that he is fully fit and ready for the upcoming Test series against Australia, but this explanation has not convinced everyone.

Shaheen’s exclusion from the series against the West Indies is also a indication that the PCB is looking to the future and is willing to give younger players a chance to prove themselves. The team’s selection for the series against the West Indies includes several new faces, including fast bowlers such as Hasan Ali and Mohammad Wasim. While this is a positive move, it also raises questions about Shaheen’s place in the team and whether he will be able to regain his position as Pakistan’s premier fast bowler.

Only time will tell what the future holds for Shaheen Afridi, but one thing is certain - his exclusion from the series against the West Indies is a significant blow to his Test career. With the competition for places in the team increasing, Shaheen will have to work hard to regain his position and prove himself as one of the best fast bowlers in the world.