**Mohammad Hafeez Criticizes Shaheen Afridi’s Omission from Pakistan’s ODI Squad**
Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has raised concerns over the exclusion of experienced pacer Shaheen Afridi from Pakistan’s ODI squad for the upcoming tour of New Zealand. Afridi, who is currently ranked ninth in the ICC ODI bowler rankings, has been a vital part of Pakistan’s pace attack for years. However, he was surprisingly left out of the squad for the three-match ODI series against New Zealand following a disappointing ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign.
Hafeez questions the selectors’ decision to overlook Afridi, emphasizing the importance of his role in the Pakistan cricket team. While acknowledging Afridi’s recent subpar performances, Hafeez believes that completely sidelining him instead of helping him regain form is a harsh decision. The former team director expressed his concerns, stating, “First, Shaheen Afridi is dropped from the Test squad, and the reason given is that he is being rested. But Shaheen himself says, ‘I am not resting; I have been dropped.’ Yes, he hasn’t been performing well in ODIs, and failure is a different issue, but this is not the right approach.”
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) recently announced the ODI and T20I squads for the New Zealand tour, with Afridi missing from the ODI team but finding a place in the T20I squad for the five-match series. The decision to exclude Afridi from the ODI squad comes after his underwhelming performances in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. In matches against New Zealand and India, Afridi struggled to make an impact, conceding runs without picking up significant wickets.
In response to criticism from former cricketer Shoaib Akhtar about the lack of strong role models in Pakistani cricket, Hafeez defended the current generation by questioning the legacy of players from the 1990s. He argued that despite being superstars in their era, players from the 1990s failed to win any ICC events, unlike current stars like Babar Azam. Hafeez emphasized the importance of winning ICC events in inspiring the next generation of cricketers.
As Pakistan prepares for the upcoming series in New Zealand, the omission of Shaheen Afridi from the ODI squad has sparked debate among fans and experts. While Hafeez continues to advocate for Afridi’s inclusion based on his experience and potential, the selectors stand by their decision to give opportunities to other players. The upcoming matches will be crucial for Pakistan as they aim to bounce back from recent disappointments and showcase their talent on the international stage.
The Impact of Shaheen Afridi’s Omission on Pakistan’s Pace Attack
Shaheen Afridi’s exclusion from the ODI squad for the upcoming tour of New Zealand has raised questions about the depth of Pakistan’s pace attack. With Afridi being a key component of the bowling lineup, his absence will undoubtedly be felt during the series. The responsibility now falls on other fast bowlers in the team to step up and fill the void left by Afridi’s omission.
Challenges Faced by Shaheen Afridi
It is essential to consider the challenges faced by Shaheen Afridi that may have contributed to his recent underwhelming performances. The pressure of international cricket, coupled with high expectations, can take a toll on even the most seasoned players. Afridi may be going through a rough patch, and the decision to omit him from the ODI squad could be a wake-up call to help him regain his form and confidence.
Strategies to Support Shaheen Afridi
Instead of completely sidelining Shaheen Afridi, the Pakistan Cricket Board and team management could consider implementing strategies to support the young fast bowler. Providing him with specialized coaching, mental health support, and opportunities to play domestic cricket to regain his rhythm could be beneficial. By investing in Afridi’s development and well-being, Pakistan cricket can potentially nurture a key asset for the future.
The Evolution of Pakistani Cricket
Mohammad Hafeez’s comments about the legacy of players from the 1990s versus the current generation shed light on the evolution of Pakistani cricket. While past players may have been revered for their individual brilliance, the emphasis on team success in ICC events has shifted the narrative. The current generation, led by players like Babar Azam, is driven by the desire to bring home trophies and inspire future cricketers to follow in their footsteps.
The Role of Experience in Cricket Selection
The debate surrounding Shaheen Afridi’s omission raises an important question about the value of experience in cricket selection. While performance is crucial, seasoned players bring invaluable knowledge, leadership, and game awareness to the team. Balancing youth and experience in a squad is essential for long-term success, as it provides a blend of raw talent and seasoned expertise to navigate the challenges of international cricket.
Looking Ahead to the Future of Pakistan Cricket
As Pakistan gears up for the series in New Zealand, the discussions around Shaheen Afridi’s exclusion serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in cricket selection. The upcoming matches will not only test the team’s resilience and adaptability but also present an opportunity for emerging talents to showcase their potential on the global stage. The decisions made by selectors and the performance of players will shape the future trajectory of Pakistan cricket.
By delving deeper into the implications of Shaheen Afridi’s omission, the evolving landscape of Pakistani cricket, and the value of experience in team selection, a richer understanding of the situation emerges. As fans eagerly await the on-field action, the debates and conversations surrounding these topics will continue to shape the narrative of Pakistan cricket.
