Former Pakistan head coach Mickey Arthur has expressed his frustration over the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) decision to rest star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi for the ongoing Test series against South Africa. Shaheen, who played a key role in Pakistan’s historic ODI series whitewash over South Africa, has been excluded from the Test lineup as part of the PCB’s workload management plan. The goal is to ensure his peak fitness and form for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Arthur criticized the decision, pointing out that South Africa offers ideal conditions for fast bowlers like Shaheen. “I can’t believe it. If he’s not bowling in South Africa, then where the hell are they bowling him?” Arthur remarked. He also highlighted Shaheen’s value as a left-arm pacer, noting that, despite the inclusion of Mir Hamza, Shaheen remains a “game-breaker and match-winner” for Pakistan.
Also Read: Pakistan Finalizes Squad for South Africa Tour
In the meantime, Shaheen is set to debut in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) with Fortune Barishal. The PCB has granted him a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) until January 15, allowing him to play in the first five matches of the tournament.
International Players Register for PSL 10 Draft
As the Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 10 draft approaches, England’s Dawid Malan has registered his availability for the tournament. He is joined by notable international cricketers, including Australia’s Usman Khawaja, England’s Jason Roy, and David Willey. The draft has also seen registrations from Bangladesh’s pacer Mustafizur Rahman, Zimbabwe’s all-rounder Sikandar Raza, and England’s Tom Curran, sparking excitement for the upcoming season.
