Questions are being raised about the Test future of Pakistani fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi after he was left out of the recently announced red-ball training camp and is reportedly unlikely to be selected for upcoming Test tours.
According to reports, Afridi was not included in the 22-player red-ball camp announced by the selection committee. Sources suggest he has been informed that his limited participation in first-class cricket has affected his chances of selection.
The development is notable because Afridi was part of Pakistan’s recent Test series against Bangladesh despite the same concerns regarding first-class participation.
Statistically, Afridi has taken 60 wickets in his last 16 Test matches and has claimed 126 wickets in 34 Tests overall.
He also enjoyed remarkable success during Pakistan’s 2021 Test tour of the West Indies, taking 18 wickets in two matches, including eight wickets in the first Test and ten in the second.
Sources indicate that selectors are keen to provide opportunities to emerging fast bowlers, with Muhammad Ali and Ubaid Shah among those being considered.
Meanwhile, Muhammad Abbas, Aamir Jamal and Khurram Shahzad are also in contention for selection.
Pakistan’s red-ball camp will continue until July 10, while the Test series against the West Indies begins on July 25, followed by a three-match Test series against England starting on August 19.
