Pakistan left out Shaheen Afridi from the team for the second Test against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi, starting on August 30. Head coach Jason Gillespie clarified that Afridi wasn’t necessarily dropped but is “working on some things” to improve his bowling effectiveness. The 12-man squad includes leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed and fast bowler Mir Hamza.
“Shaheen’s missed out this game,” Gillespie explained. “We had a good discussion with him, and he understands the reasons behind it. He’s working with Azhar Mahmood to refine his bowling as we have a busy schedule ahead, and we want Shaheen to be at his best.”
Afridi’s form in Test cricket has been under scrutiny, particularly after a disappointing performance in Australia and the first Test against Bangladesh, where he took two lower-order wickets for 96 runs. His pace, once in the mid-140 kph range, has decreased since his last injury. Although Afridi recently became a father, the team hasn’t cited this as the main reason for his exclusion. This suggests the decision is more strategic than a simple rest.
Abrar Ahmed is likely to play in the second Test after Pakistan’s all-pace attack failed in the first Test. Due to recent rains in Rawalpindi, both teams have had limited opportunities to assess the pitch, prompting Pakistan to announce a 12-man squad. Pakistan must win this Test to draw the series, following their historic loss to Bangladesh.
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