Photo Credit: Instagram Photo of @therealpcb
In a bold move, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) excluded veteran players Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi, and Babar Azam from the Test squad for the final two matches against England. Pakistan’s six consecutive losses in the format, coupled with the poor performances of these key players, prompted the change.
The strategy paid off as Pakistan defeated England in the second Test, ending their losing streak. Kamran Ghulam, who replaced Babar Azam, scored a century, while Sajid Khan and Noman Ali made valuable contributions with the ball.
It remains uncertain whether the senior players will be sidelined in the white-ball formats as well, given Pakistan’s recent success without them. Reports suggest that these players are under immense pressure to perform in their next opportunities or risk facing similar consequences in white-ball competitions.
However, with the Champions Trophy approaching, the PCB may hesitate to make such drastic decisions ahead of Pakistan’s upcoming series against Australia, where they will play three ODIs and three T20Is. In the long term, though, sitting out the series may not be beneficial for the senior players.
Pakistan is also expected to give its experienced players a break in the upcoming series against Zimbabwe, where the younger squad will be tested.
According to a report, the PCB plans to rest Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Afridi, and Babar Azam, among other senior players, for the Zimbabwe tour, which will consist of three T20Is and three ODIs.
The PCB’s decision sends a clear message to the players not to take their positions for granted. If the senior players do not perform, those who excel on the Zimbabwe tour could push them to their limits and potentially replace them in the team.
Babar Azam stepped down as captain of the Pakistan team following harsh criticism for the team’s poor performance in the T20 World Cup. A new captain is expected to be announced soon for the upcoming series against Australia.
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
