Shaheen Afridi eyes WTC 2025–27 final

Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi says the team is fully prepared for a demanding Test schedule and has set its sights on reaching the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 final, with consistency and adaptability key to their ambitions.

Speaking ahead of the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Test series 2025, Afridi emphasised the importance of long-term planning as Pakistan embark on what he described as an extended red-ball season.

“We are looking forward to the challenge of the Test series. Tests are very important for us, and this is a long Test season — perhaps for the first time like this. We are fully prepared and ready to give our best,” Afridi said.

Pakistan’s campaign in the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 is still in its early stages, but Afridi made it clear that the team’s ambitions extend beyond individual series.

“We are not only focused on this Test series but also on the World Test Championship,” he said. “Our target is to reach the final, and for that we must play our best cricket consistently.”

Pakistan currently aim to improve their standing in the WTC table through strong performances across both home and away fixtures.
Afridi acknowledged the challenges posed by playing in different conditions, particularly in the subcontinent, where spin-friendly pitches often favour the home side.

“Every team is strong in its home conditions, but what matters most is how well you prepare and execute your plans,” he said.
Looking ahead to the Bangladesh Test series, Afridi highlighted Pakistan’s readiness to adapt to varying surfaces.

“Bangladesh have done well on spin tracks, and teams use home advantage. We have prepared for both spin conditions and green wickets, so we are ready for every challenge,” he added.

The Pakistan vs Bangladesh Test series 2025 will begin at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium from May 8 to 12, with the second Test scheduled at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium from May 16 to 20.

Pakistan will be led by Shan Masood and feature a mix of experienced players and emerging talent, including several uncapped players in the squad. Key names include Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Hasan Ali.