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The decision to drop star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi from Pakistan's second Test against Bangladesh has sparked controversy, with former Pakistan batsman Ahmad Shahzad questioning the team's selection strategy. The second Test, starting in Rawalpindi on Friday, will see Afridi rested to allow him to spend time with his newborn son and family, according to Pakistan's head coach Jason Gillespie.
Shahzad, expressing his discontent on social media, highlighted Pakistan's recent string of defeats, including losses to Zimbabwe, Ireland, USA, India, and now Bangladesh. He argued that attributing these losses solely to Afridi's performance is unfair, emphasizing that accountability should be spread across the team. Shahzad particularly pointed out the lackluster performance of other key players, including Abdullah Shafique and Babar Azam.
Shahzad's critique focused on the team's overall performance and questioned the logic behind dropping only Afridi. He urged for a broader assessment of the team's shortcomings and for those responsible for the defeats to be held accountable. He stressed the importance of prioritizing the country's interests above individual performances and personal milestones. Shahzad's strong words reflect the growing frustration among fans with Pakistan's recent performances and the team's inability to consistently perform at a high level.
Pakistan's struggles have been evident in their recent performances, including a disappointing early exit from this year's T20 World Cup and a whitewash in a three-match Test series against Australia. The team's reliance on a single player, like Afridi, highlights the need for a more balanced and strategic approach to team selection and performance. Shahzad's call for a holistic assessment and accountability may serve as a wake-up call for the Pakistan Cricket Board to address the team's shortcomings and regain their winning momentum.