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Shaheen Afridi After a disappointing performance in the series-opener, Pakistan has made a significant change to their squad for the second Test against Bangladesh, dropping left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi. This decision comes amid criticism of Pakistan team selection and strategy, particularly their choice to field four pacers rather than opting for two spinners, a move that has been widely debated by former players.
Head coach Jason Gillespie addressed the media in the pre-match press conference, explaining the rationale behind the decision to rest Afridi. Shaheen understands the situation and is fully aware of what we’re trying to achieve with the team combination for this game,” Gillespie said. He added that the break will allow Afridi to spend quality time with his family. which has been a specially important to given a his recent personal circumstances and including the his transition into the fatherhood. We had a good conversation with him, and this time off will give him the chance to recharge and focus on his family,” Gillespie noted.
Gillespie also reassured that Afridi is working closely with Azhar Mahmood to improve his effectiveness. “We want to see him at his best for the upcoming fixtures. There’s a lot of cricket ahead and we’re hopeful that this rest will benefit him in the long run,” Gillespie said.
Shaheen Shah Afridi’s recent struggles can be attributed to a knee injury that has limited his appearances. Since July 2022, he has played only six Tests, and he was rested for the final Test against Australia in Sydney earlier this year. His absence from the squad is part of a broader strategy to optimize Pakistan bowling attack.
In addition to Afridi’s omission, Gillespie confirmed that all-rounder Aamer Jamal is still recovering from an injury and will not be available for this match. The coach stressed the importance of improving Pakistan over rates, which have been a problem. The team was fined 30 percent of their match fees and lost points in the World Test Championship due to slow over rates during the first Test, which they lost by 10 wickets.
We need to manage our energy levels better and ensure we’re getting through our overs more efficiently,” Gillespie said. He acknowledged that while the team showed positive intent with a bold declaration in the first innings of the first Test, Bangladesh played better cricket and deserved their victory. There’s nothing we can do about the past, but we need to learn from our mistakes and apply those lessons in the second Test,” Gillespie added.
The coach emphasized that players must take both individual and collective responsibility. “Playing positively doesn’t mean hitting sixes every ball. It’s about maintaining the right energy levels and being consistently engaged in batting and bowling. Bowlers need to be more ruthless, hit the right line and length and challenge the opposition with consistent accuracy,” Gillespie said.
Gillespie also expressed disappointment over the loss in the first Test but stressed the importance of showing freedom and intent on the field. We’re encouraging the players to play with freedom and showcase their skills authentically. They need to execute their skills properly and take pride in playing for Pakistan,” he concluded.
The Pakistan squad for the second Test includes Shan Masood (c), Saud Shakeel (vc), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Ali, Salman Ali Agha, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Mir Hamza, Abdullah Shafique, Naseem Shah and Khurram Shehzad.
Bangladesh squad for the second Test features Najmul Hossain Shanto (C), Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Kumer Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Nahid Rana, Shoriful Islam, Hasan Mahmud and Taskin Ahmed. With these changes and strategic adjustments, Pakistan will aim to turn their fortunes around and level the series against Bangladesh.
Shaheen Afridi Will Sit Out Of This Game – Jason Gillespie
During a press conference, Jason Gillespie explained that Shaheen Shah Afridi omission from the upcoming Test is a strategic decision aimed at optimizing the team’s performance. Gillespie emphasized that Afridi understands and supports the reasoning behind this choice. “Shaheen will sit out this game. I had a thorough discussion with him, and he fully grasps and values the rationale behind this decision. We’re aiming for the best possible combination for this match,” Gillespie said.
He also highlighted that this decision allows Afridi to spend quality time with his family and specially given his recent role as a new father. Shaheen has had a busy few weeks, balancing his new responsibilities at home and playing across all formats. This break will give him a chance to be with his family,” Gillespie added.
Afridi was one of four frontline seamers in the series opener, but the attack struggled. The quartet collectively took 9 wickets for 359 runs at an average close to 40. Afridi’s individual performance was 2/88 from 30 overs, while Bangladesh amassed 565 runs in their first innings.
He’s Been Collaborating Well With Azhar Mahmood – Jason Gillespie
Jason Gillespie revealed that Shaheen Shah Afridi exclusion from the upcoming Test is influenced by both personal and professional considerations. He noted that Afridi is currently focused on refining his bowling techniques with the help of Azhar Mahmood. “Shaheen is working on various aspects of his bowling to ensure he’s at his best. His collaboration with Azhar Mahmood has been very productive,” Gillespie said.
He further emphasized that while Afridi is a key player for the future, the team is well-equipped for the current game without him. We want Shaheen to be at his peak because we have a busy cricket schedule ahead. He’ll play a crucial role in the coming months,” Gillespie added.
In the meantime, Naseem Shah, Khurram Shahzad and Mohammad Ali remain in the 12-member squad, with Mir Hamza and spinner Abrar Ahmed being recalled. The final playing XI will be decided before the start of the Test in Rawalpindi. Afridi has only featured in six Tests since July 2022 due to a knee injury and was rested for the final Test against Australia in January. Abrar Ahmed has made an impact in his short Test career, taking 38 wickets in just six matches.
Shaheen Afridi is struggling for form
Shaheen Afridi has lost form in the last year, with ordinary displays across formats. His below-pat performances have led to Pakistan’s defeat in several big games. Shaheen pace has come down with the pacer also failing to swing the ball.
According to reports, he didn’t behave appropriately during theICC T20 World Cup 2024. which also influenced the dressing room environment. The second Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh will start on August 30.
We’re looking for the best combination: Gillespie
Jason Gillespie announced that Shaheen Shah Afridi will be sidelined for the upcoming Test, citing both strategic and personal reasons. Gillespie explained that he and Afridi had a thorough discussion about the decision, and Afridi fully understands and supports it. “Shaheen will sit out this game. We had a productive conversation, and he appreciates the rationale behind this decision. We’re aiming for the best possible combination for this match, and this is our approach,” Gillespie said.
He also highlighted that the team will review the conditions on the morning of the match to finalize the bowling lineup. Afridi has recently had a busy few weeks, including becoming a new father and Gillespie sees this as an opportunity for Afridi to spend quality time with his family. Shaheen has received feedback and has been working diligently with Azhar Mahmood to improve his bowling. This break will allow him to focus on his family as well,” Gillespie added.
Gillespie stressed the importance of Afridi ongoing work with the bowling coach. Shaheen is focusing on refining his bowling to improve he’s in peak condition. His collaboration with Azhar Mahmood has been excellent. We want him to be at his best because there’s a lot of cricket ahead, and he will play a crucial role. For this game, we believe a have all our bases covered without him. Shaheen is a top-quality player and he will be integral over the next 6-7 months,” Gillespie concluded.
