Former cricketer and member of the National Selection Committee Aqib Javed, who is also serving as the interim head coach, explained the reason for not including Shaheen Shah Afridi in the Test squad for South Africa.
Aqib Javed that fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi was given rest in view of next year’s scheduled Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan, so that he could focus on his fitness and return to his best form.
He added that the goal is to maintain consistency in the One-Day squad in preparation for the Champions Trophy, with an aim to create a combination of experienced players and youth.
Aqib Javed also said that for the Test series against South Africa, Abbas Afridi was selected in place of Shaheen Shah Afridi.
It may be mentioned here that Shaheen Shah Afridi has played 2 Test matches against the host team, and took 9 wickets at an average of 26.66.
