Pakistan’s fast bowler Shaheen Afridi is expected to miss the upcoming Test tours of the West Indies and England due to a workload management plan. Reports indicate that Afridi is not pleased with this decision, as it may prevent him from participating in important red-ball matches.
The team is set to play two Tests in the West Indies, starting on July 25 in Tarouba and August 2 in Port of Spain, followed by a three-match Test series in England starting August 19. Afridi is currently leading Pakistan’s ODI team and plays a vital role in the squad.
“The selectors and management think it’s better for Shaheen’s workload to be managed, allowing him to focus more on white-ball Cricket,” said a source, according to NDTV Sports.
Sources reveal that Afridi is disappointed with the decision to rest him from these upcoming Tests. He feels he is young and eager to play more red-ball cricket.
Since his International debut in 2018, Afridi has become one of Pakistan’s top bowlers, claiming 126 wickets in 34 Tests and also representing the team in 77 ODIs and 103 T20Is. Despite Pakistan playing 16 Test matches since December 2023, Afridi has participated in only seven.
Another source mentioned that white-ball coach Mike Hesson supports this decision, viewing it as crucial for managing Afridi’s fitness and workload. Recently, Afridi led Pakistan to a 2-1 ODI series win over Australia at home.
The selectors are also looking to test other emerging fast bowlers who are performing well in domestic cricket, such as Muhammad Ali, Muhammad Abbar, and Khurrum Shehzad. Pakistan’s lack of genuine fast bowlers capable of consistently bowling over 140 kph has raised concerns in recent years and contributed to difficulties in Test cricket, leading the team to depend on slower, spin-friendly pitches at home.