Former Pakistan head coach Mickey Arthur has expressed strong disapproval over the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) decision to exclude premier fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi from the Test squad for the upcoming series against South Africa. Arthur, who led Pakistan from 2016 to 2019, described Afridi as a “game breaker and match-winner,” emphasizing his pivotal role in the team’s bowling lineup.
The two-match Test series is set to commence on December 26, 2024, with significant implications for South Africa’s prospects in the ICC World Test Championship. A series victory would enhance their chances of securing a spot in the final at Lord’s in June 2025. Afridi’s absence from the Test squad has raised eyebrows, especially considering his participation in the preceding white-ball series against South Africa. The PCB has cited workload management as the rationale behind resting Afridi, aiming to preserve his fitness for the ICC Champions Trophy scheduled for February 2025.
In an interview with ESPNcricinfo, Arthur expressed his astonishment at the decision, stating, “I cannot believe it. If he is not bowling in South Africa, then where the hell are they bowling him?” He further elaborated on Afridi’s significance, noting that South African conditions are ideal for fast bowlers, and Afridi’s skills could have been instrumental in clinching victories for Pakistan.
Arthur’s tenure as head coach was marked by significant achievements, including guiding Pakistan to victory in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy. His insights into player management and strategic decisions carry considerable weight, making his criticism of Afridi’s exclusion particularly noteworthy. He emphasized that, based on pure skill, Afridi should be an automatic selection for the South African tour, given his proven success in similar conditions.
Shaheen Afridi has been a cornerstone of Pakistan’s bowling attack across all formats. His ability to generate pace and swing, coupled with his knack for taking early wickets, has been crucial in providing Pakistan with competitive edges in numerous matches. Resting him during a pivotal Test series, especially against a formidable opponent like South Africa, has led to widespread debate among cricket analysts and fans alike.
The PCB’s decision underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing player workload with the demands of international cricket. With the ICC Champions Trophy on the horizon, the board appears to be prioritizing Afridi’s long-term fitness. However, critics argue that his presence in the Test series could have bolstered Pakistan’s chances of success, potentially impacting their standing in the World Test Championship.