Shaheen Afridi is likely to return to Pakistan’s T20 team for the upcoming tour of the West Indies. This development is seen as a major boost for the national side ahead of a busy cricket schedule.
Reports suggest that Shaheen will be one of three changes to the squad that recently played against Bangladesh. The left-arm pacer has not featured in any T20 international since March. During his absence, the team tried several new players to test squad depth.
White-ball head coach Mike Hesson had earlier highlighted areas where Shaheen needed improvement. However, with key tournaments like the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup approaching, the selectors appear ready to recall their strike bowler.
The 25-year-old has missed two T20 series against Bangladesh — one at home and one away. With Pakistan preparing for a tough tour of the West Indies in early August, team management is keen to include experienced players. The tour will feature both ODIs and T20Is.
Shaheen is expected to lead the pace attack once again. His return could improve Pakistan’s bowling strength, especially with the new ball. He has taken 102 wickets in 79 T20 internationals and remains one of the top fast bowlers in the world.
According to cricket analyst Au Rangzeb Younis, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is planning to bring in other experienced bowlers as well. Haris Rauf and Hasan Ali may also rejoin the squad. This means younger bowlers like Ahmed Daniyal and Abbas Afridi could be dropped.
The tour of the West Indies is a crucial part of Pakistan’s preparation for the upcoming Asia Cup. The PCB is using this series to finalize its T20 squad ahead of major tournaments.The final squad for the West Indies tour is expected to be announced soon. Shaheen Afridi’s comeback is now almost confirmed. His return is expected to give Pakistan a stronger and more balanced bowling unit as they gear up for a challenging few months in international cricket.
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