Shaheen Afridi likely to miss West Indies, England tests

A speed breaker appears to be emerging in Shaheen Afridi’s Test career, as the chances of him being overlooked for the tours of the West Indies and England have increased.

According to details, the selection committee recently announced a 22-player squad for the red-ball camp, and fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi’s name was not included. Sources say he has been informed that since he does not play first-class cricket, he will not be considered for the West Indies and England tours.

Interestingly, Shaheen did participate in the recent Test series against Bangladesh, where this criterion was not applied. He has taken 60 wickets in his last 16 Test matches. During Pakistan’s 2021 Test series in the West Indies, Shaheen claimed 18 wickets in 2 matches, taking 8 wickets in the first Test and 10 in the next.

Sources further revealed that the selectors, impressed by performances in the PSL, are keen to give chances to Mohammad Ali and Ubaid Shah. Mohammad Abbas, Aamir Jamal, and Khurram Shehzad are also in contention for selection.

Shaheen has often been selected for Asian pitches, there is now an intention to overlook him even in favorable conditions. He has taken 126 wickets in 34 Tests in his career.

The red-ball camp for 22 players will run from June 8 to July 10. Pakistan will begin a 2-Test series in the West Indies on July 25, followed by a 3-Test series against England starting August 19.