Former Pakistan pacer Amir Yamin has voiced his support for Asif Afridi, who recently faced criticism after being named in Pakistan’s Test squad for the upcoming home series against South Africa.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the squad earlier this week for the two-match Test series, which begins on October 12 in Lahore. The inclusion of the uncapped left-arm spinner sparked debate among fans and analysts, with some questioning his selection due to limited international exposure.
Responding to the criticism, Amir Yamin took to social media to defend Afridi, calling him a hardworking and talented player who deserves the opportunity. He said that Asif Afridi has consistently performed well in domestic cricket and earned his place through dedication and discipline.
The former pacer emphasized that selectors often look for players who can bring variety to the bowling lineup. According to Yamin, Afridi’s left-arm spin and control could prove valuable in home conditions, especially on turning tracks in Lahore and Karachi.
Yamin urged fans and critics to give the young spinner a fair chance, noting that debut players often need time to adjust to international pressure. He also reminded cricket followers that several top players once faced similar doubts before proving themselves on the big stage.
Asif Afridi’s selection is part of Pakistan’s strategy to build bench strength ahead of the next cricket season. The team management is believed to be focusing on creating a balanced combination of experience and new talent for the upcoming series.
Meanwhile, the inclusion of players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan remains a hot topic among cricket fans, with many speculating about their return for the Test matches..
Cricket analysts say Afridi’s performance in the domestic circuit has been impressive, particularly in first-class matches, where he has shown consistency and control. His selection is seen as a step toward giving emerging players greater exposure and confidence.
As the series against South Africa approaches, all eyes will be on Asif Afridi to see whether he can translate his domestic success into international impact. For now, the support from Amir Yamin has helped shift the conversation toward encouragement and patience.
