Shahid Afridi Urges Rest for Shaheen, Shadab
The decision to rest senior players could be a turning point for Pakistan, allowing them to reassess their strategy and give opportunities to fresh talent. With the ODI series just around the corner, the team will be looking to bounce back from their disappointing T20I performance and make a strong impression.
Pakistan's former captain Shahid Afridi has called for senior players Shaheen Afridi and Shadab Khan to be rested for the final T20I against New Zealand, citing the need to give opportunities to younger players on the bench. With the series already lost 1-3, Afridi believes it's time to look towards the future and provide experience to those who have been waiting for a chance.
Afridi's suggestion comes after Pakistan's disappointing performance in the series, where they struggled to make an impact against the dominant New Zealand team. Shadab Khan, in particular, had a tough series, scoring only 30 runs in three innings, while Shaheen Afridi took just two wickets in two games. Afridi thinks that resting these players will not only give them a much-needed break but also allow younger players to gain valuable experience at the international level.
The former captain also expressed his frustration over the national team's selection for the T20I series, pointing out the lack of experience in the squad and what he believes were inappropriate selection choices. He criticized the decision to choose first-class players with limited experience for conditions that favor spin bowling, and lamented the fact that the team is being taught basic batting skills at the national level. Afridi also emphasized the need for adequate breaks for players, including star batter Babar Azam, and called for more opportunities for young players like Mohammad Hasnain and Usman Khan.
The final T20I is scheduled for March 26, followed by the start of the ODI series on March 29. With the series already lost, Pakistan will be looking to regroup and come back stronger in the upcoming matches. Afridi's suggestions may just be what the team needs to revitalize their performance and give younger players a chance to shine.