Fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi’s place in Pakistan’s Test plans appears increasingly uncertain, with reports suggesting he could miss the upcoming tours of the West Indies and England.
The development follows the announcement of a 22-member squad for the national red-ball training camp, from which Shaheen was notably absent. According to sources, he has been informed that his lack of participation in domestic first-class cricket has affected his chances of selection for the upcoming Test assignments.
The situation has raised questions, considering Shaheen featured in Pakistan’s recent Test series against Bangladesh despite the same criterion not being applied at the time. The left-arm pacer has claimed 60 wickets in his last 16 Test appearances and has a strong record in the West Indies, where he picked up 18 wickets in two Tests during Pakistan’s 2021 tour, including match hauls of eight and ten wickets.
Sources also indicate that the selectors are eager to reward standout performers from the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Fast bowlers Mohammad Ali and Ubaid Shah are reportedly being considered for opportunities, while Mohammad Abbas, Aamir Jamal, and Khurram Shehzad remain in contention for places in the squad.