Shaheen Afridi Takes Initiative, Requests Break from Sydney Test

Shaheen Afridi requested a break from the Sydney Test to manage workload, says Pakistan coach

Pakistan coach Mohammad Hafeez disclosed that Shaheen Shah Afridi independently sought a break from the recent Sydney Test against Australia. Challenging the belief that the team management unilaterally made the decision to rest the left-arm pacer.

Australia clinched victory by eight wickets at the Sydney Cricket Ground, sealing a 3-0 series win.

Hafeez explained, “We took the decision to rest Shaheen and manage his workload because we didn’t want his body to be adversely affected.”

Pakistani cricket icons Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis criticized the unexpected decision to bench Afridi for the final Test.

Contrary to initial reports, Afridi, in an interview on the first day of the Sydney Test, had mentioned that the team management and support staff recommended he take a break.

Hafeez clarified that Afridi, having carried a significant workload since returning from injury last year, deserved the break to prevent any harm to his career.

“We felt it was best if we could give him a break and manage his workload. “At present, I aim to prevent bowlers’ careers from being affected due to workload mismanagement,” Hafeez emphasized.

Hafeez denied any link between Afridi’s rest and his appointment as Pakistan captain for the New Zealand T20I series.

“Shaheen did not rest as he wanted to play T20 cricket. It’s clear that his body was a bit sore. He wasn’t feeling very comfortable that his body would be able to respond appropriately,” clarified Hafeez, emphasizing the need to prevent injuries.

Moreover, Hafeez suggested the possibility of providing a break to premier batsman Babar Azam if necessary. Emphasizing the team’s trust in Babar’s skills while prioritizing the player’s well-being.

“We have utmost confidence in Babar’s ability to perform even though he is going through a lean patch. But if it is needed, he can be given a break. But we will speak to him to find out what he wants,” added Hafeez.

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