Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi is facing uncertainty over his place in the Test squad for upcoming tours of West Indies and England. Selection decisions suggest a possible shift in red-ball planning.
According to reports, Shaheen Afridi’s name is missing from the recently announced 22-member red-ball training camp squad. This has raised questions about his future in Test cricket.
Sources say Shaheen Afridi’s selection chances have decreased because he does not regularly play first-class cricket. The selectors are reportedly prioritizing players active in domestic red-ball competitions.
However, Shaheen Afridi’s situation appears inconsistent. He recently played in the Test series against Bangladesh, where the same selection concern was not highlighted.
Despite limited domestic appearances, Shaheen Afridi’s Test record remains strong. He has taken 60 wickets in his last 16 Test matches, showing consistent performance at the international level.
In total, Shaheen Afridi’s career includes 126 wickets in 34 Test matches. He also delivered a standout performance during Pakistan’s 2021 West Indies tour.
In that series, Shaheen Afridi’s bowling helped Pakistan secure key breakthroughs. He took 18 wickets across two matches, including eight wickets in the first Test and ten in the second.
Selectors are now considering other pace options for upcoming tours. Players like Mohammad Ali and Owais Shah are being evaluated based on strong PSL performances.
Other fast bowlers, including Mohammad Abbas, Aamer Jamal, and Khurram Shahzad, are also under consideration for selection.
Sources indicate that Shaheen Afridi’s exclusion from the training camp signals a possible strategic change. The management appears focused on form, fitness, and domestic participation.
The final squad for the West Indies and England tours has not yet been announced. However, current indications suggest stiff competition for fast-bowling positions.
Shaheen Afridi’s future in Test cricket will depend on upcoming selection decisions and performance requirements set by the team management.
For now, Shaheen Afridi’s absence from the training camp remains one of the key talking points in Pakistan cricket circles.
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