The Pakistan cricket team is undergoing significant changes following a series of disappointing performances. In a bold move, the selectors have decided to rest some senior players, including star batsman Babar Azam and fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi. While many former players have criticized this decision, former captain Shahid Afridi has come forward to support the selectors, emphasizing its potential benefits for the team’s future.
Shahid Afridi’s Support for Selectors
Shahid Afridi has publicly backed the selectors’ decision to grant a break to Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Naseem Shah. He views this move as crucial for the players’ careers, stating that it will not only protect and extend their playing days but also allow for the development of emerging talent within the team. Afridi expressed his thoughts on social media platform X, stating, “I support the selectors’ decision to exempt Babar, Shaheen, and Naseem from international cricket. This approach will greatly benefit both the players and the future of Pakistan cricket.” Afridi believes that providing these experienced players with a rest period can pave the way for strengthening the team’s bench strength.
Supporting the selectors decision to give Babar, Shaheen, and Naseem a break from international cricket. This move not only helps protect and extend the careers of these champion players but also gives a great opportunity to test and groom emerging talent, building strong bench.
— Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) October 14, 2024
Performance Concerns for Shaheen Afridi
Despite being a key player, Shaheen Afridi’s recent performances have been underwhelming, raising concerns about his contributions to the team. During the first match of the Test series against England, Shaheen struggled to make an impact, taking just one wicket for 120 runs over 26 overs. Over the past year, he has managed to secure only 17 wickets in 11 Test innings, which is far from the expected output for a player of his caliber. His inconsistency has inevitably led to his exclusion from the upcoming matches.
New Faces in the Second Test
With the selectors opting for fresh talent, Kamran Ghulam will take Babar Azam’s place in the playing eleven for the second Test, while Noman Ali has been brought in as a replacement for Shaheen Afridi in the bowling department. This revamping of the lineup aims to inject new vigor into the team and provide opportunities for lesser-known players to shine on the international stage.
Pakistan’s Playing XI for the Second Test
The playing eleven for Pakistan in the second Test includes:
- Sam Ayub
- Abdullah Shafiq
- Shan Masood (captain)
- Kamran Ghulam
- Saud Shakeel (vice-captain)
- Mohammad Rizwan (wicketkeeper)
- Salman Ali Aga
- Aamir Jamal
- Noman Ali
- Sajid Khan
- Zahid Mehmood
This new lineup reflects a strategic shift aimed at revitalizing the team’s performance and preparing for future challenges. With strong support from former players like Shahid Afridi, the selectors’ choice to rest key players could very well mark a turning point for Pakistan cricket.
