(Image Source: PCB)
[Saba Sports News] Pakistan opted to rest Shaheen Shah Afridi for the third Test against Australia, resulting in an eight-wicket loss for the visitors. This decision was predetermined after the first Test in Perth, where it was decided that Afridi would take a break if Pakistan lost in Melbourne. Despite this, Afridi faced criticism from ex-cricketers like Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis, who expected his participation with Pakistan trailing 2-0 in the series.
Afridi clarified that his workload management was a team management decision. He emphasized his dedication to Test cricket, stating he would have played if the series outcome was uncertain. “I’m in peak condition. Excessive bowling in the first two Tests led to fatigue. To prevent injury, the team management and medical panel advised rest. I would’ve played even at 50-50 fitness if the series victory was possible. Test cricket is my top priority,” Afridi said in a press conference.
Regarding potential team changes, Shaheen hinted at alterations in Pakistan’s T20I series against New Zealand. Mohammad Rizwan and Saim Ayub are likely to open, but Babar’s return remains a possibility. “Babar and Rizwan are Pakistan’s best openers. With 17 matches before the World Cup, we aim to experiment with different line-ups. We’ll try players in various positions to finalize our team combination before the England tour. By the England T20s pre-World Cup, we should have our best XI,” Shaheen concluded.