Pakistan Test Squad Announcement: No Shaheen Afridi for South…

Shaheen Shah Afridi has been omitted from Pakistan’s Test squad for the South Africa tour, focusing on workload management ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Babar Azam returns to lead the team in all formats, supported by experienced players like Mohammad Rizwan. The selection reflects a strategic approach to capitalize on team strengths in pace-friendly conditions.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) selector has announced the Test squad for the upcoming tour of South Africa, notably omitting Shaheen Shah Afridi from the roster. Afridi, who recently missed two Tests against England, will participate only in the white-ball formats as part of a strategic decision aimed at managing his workload in preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Meanwhile, Babar Azam makes his return across all formats alongside seasoned players like Mohammad Rizwan and Naseem Shah.

Selected for the Test matches scheduled from December 10 to January 7, the 15-man squad also welcomes Mohammad Abbas back into the fold after a long absence, recognizing his impressive domestic performance. Khurram Shahzad and Mir Hamza are included as fast bowling options, with a careful balance of both experience and youthful talent considered for the conditions expected in South Africa. Moreover, the selectors are adopting a ‘horses for courses’ strategy, exemplified by the difficult decision to exclude Sajid Khan despite his recent successes.

A focused approach to squad selection aims to achieve competitiveness in the challenging South African environment. The squad features only one specialist spinner, Noman Ali, and enhances its depth with the addition of Sufyan Moqim, who has demonstrated promise in T20 matches. The official departure for the T20I squad is set for December 6, with the remaining squads following a few days later, gearing up for what is anticipated to be a demanding series in South Africa.

The announcement by the Pakistan Cricket Board for the Test squad marks a significant moment as the team prepares for its tour of South Africa. The decision to exclude Shaheen Shah Afridi reflects a strategic focus on managing player fitness and form for upcoming tournaments. This is crucial in light of Pakistan’s preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The selection committee’s approach has also prioritized creating a balance between experienced players and emerging talents, particularly considering the conditions in South Africa, which traditionally favor pace bowlers.

In conclusion, the PCB’s decision to exclude Shaheen Shah Afridi from the Test squad while reinstating Babar Azam underscores a long-term strategic vision towards the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The selection reflects a careful evaluation of player performance and fitness, with a goal to cultivate a resilient and adaptable team capable of thriving in challenging conditions. The inclusion of experienced players alongside promising newcomers aims to maintain competitive integrity in the series against South Africa and beyond.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com