Pakistan Drops Shaheen Shah Afridi For Must-Win Second Test Against Bangladesh
Following criticism over their heavy defeat in the series opener, Pakistan has made a significant change to their squad for the crucial second Test against Bangladesh, dropping left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi.
Pakistan’s team strategy in the first Test, which featured four pacers and was criticized for lacking balance, has led to adjustments. Former players had suggested that including two spinners might have been more effective.
Head coach Jason Gillespie stated that the decision to rest Afridi was made with his well-being in mind. “Shaheen understands the situation, and this break will allow him to spend quality time with his family,”
Gillespie said during the pre-match press conference. He added that Afridi is working with Azhar Mahmood to improve his performance, and the management aims to see him back at his best given the upcoming cricket schedule.
Afridi has struggled with a knee injury and has played only six Tests since July 2022, including being rested for the final Test against Australia in Sydney earlier this year.
Gillespie also confirmed that all-rounder Aamer Jamal is still unfit and will miss the match. He emphasized the need for Pakistan to address their slow over rates, which led to a 30 percent fine on match fees and point deductions in the World Test Championship for their first Test defeat by 10 wickets.
“We need to be more efficient in managing our over rates,” Gillespie said. He praised the team’s positive intent in the first Test but acknowledged that Bangladesh played better cricket. “We need to learn from our mistakes and apply those lessons in the second Test,” he added.
Gillespie stressed the importance of consistency and effectiveness from the bowlers, urging them to maintain the right line and length. He also called on the players to take individual and collective responsibility, focusing on playing with freedom, intent, and energy.
Pakistan Squad: Shan Masood (C), Saud Shakeel (VC), Abrar Ahmed, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Khurram Shahzad, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha.
Bangladesh Squad: Najmul Hossain Shanto (C), Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Kumer Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Nahid Rana, Shoriful Islam, Hasan Mahmud, Taskin Ahmed, Syed Khaled Ahmed.