Former Test captain Shahid Afridi strongly criticized Pakistan’s squad selection for the New Zealand tour, questioning the changes made to the team.
Speaking to the media at a local hotel, Afridi highlighted that continuous cricket leads to player fatigue and emphasized the need for rest, regardless of whether it’s Babar Azam or any other player. He also raised concerns over the decision to send 10 to 11 first-class players on the tour.
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Afridi took issue with the selection strategy, arguing that pacers were chosen when spinners were required. He also criticized former captain and batting coach Mohammad Yousuf for teaching players how to play off-spin, stating that such training should not be conducted at the national team level. Additionally, he expressed frustration over the prolonged sidelining of talented players like Usman Khan and Mohammad Hasnain.
He stressed the importance of having a permanent head coach and a stable PCB chairman. Commenting on leadership decisions, Afridi noted that Babar Azam was given extended captaincy opportunities, whereas Mohammad Rizwan had only six months to prove himself.
Afridi asserted that the national team should not be a place for learning, urging the implementation of a proper system like other cricketing nations. He emphasized the need for strong bench strength, pointing out that the team should not struggle in the absence of Shaheen Afridi. Concluding his remarks, he advised batters to focus on singles and doubles instead of always aiming for big shots, rather than trying to emulate his own aggressive playing style.
