Questions are being raised about the future of Shaheen Shah Afridi in Test cricket as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reportedly prepares to give the star pacer an extended break from the red-ball format.
According to sources, Shaheen will not be part of Pakistan’s upcoming Test assignments against the West Indies and England, further fueling speculation about his long-term role in the national Test side.
Sources said the PCB has decided to prepare Shaheen Afridi for a period of rest from Test cricket.
The development comes amid concerns over the left-arm fast bowler’s recent performances and workload management, with his place in Pakistan’s red-ball plans now facing increased scrutiny.
Omitted from red-ball camp
One of the most notable signs of the shift was Shaheen’s absence from the national red-ball camp.
According to sources, the ODI captain was not even invited to the training camp, indicating that he is currently not part of the immediate plans for upcoming Test assignments.
His exclusion has intensified debate about his future in the longest format of the game.
West Indies, England series likely to be missed
Sources further revealed that Shaheen Afridi will not be included in Pakistan’s squads for the forthcoming Test series against the West Indies and England.
The decision would mark another significant setback for the fast bowler’s Test career after he was also dropped from the second Test against Bangladesh.
According to sources, another major factor behind the decision is Shaheen’s limited participation in first-class cricket.
Selectors are believed to have taken note of his lack of red-ball domestic cricket, which has reportedly influenced discussions regarding his place in Pakistan’s Test setup.
Shaheen’s Test record
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Shaheen remains one of Pakistan’s most successful fast bowlers in recent years.
The left-arm pacer has taken 126 wickets in 34 Test matches, establishing himself as a key figure in Pakistan’s bowling attack since making his debut.
However, with changes seemingly underway in the team’s red-ball strategy, his Test future has become a major talking point ahead of Pakistan’s upcoming international schedule.
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