Fast bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah decided to withdraw their names from consideration for the second and third Tests against England due to concerns over nagging injuries. During the first Test in Multan, both bowlers experienced minor issues that could worsen if they continued to play.
According to sources, Shaheen and Naseem faced increasing discomfort during the match, which led them to prioritize rest over risking their fitness. The two players communicated their concerns to team captain Shan Masood and head coach Jason Gillespie, indicating that it would be better for them to take a break rather than continue playing under such conditions.
The team management respected their decision, and the selection committee agreed to exclude both bowlers from the final squad for the upcoming Tests. During the first Test, held in the sweltering heat of Multan, Shaheen bowled 26 overs, while Naseem bowled 31 overs. Throughout the match, their frustration and struggles to take wickets were evident on their faces.
Pakistan Squad (for 2nd and 3rd Tests):
Shan Masood (captain), Saud Shakeel (vice-captain), Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Haseebullah (wicket-keeper), Kamran Ghulam, Mehran Mumtaz, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan (wicket-keeper), Noman Ali, Saim Ayub, Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha and Zahid Mehmood.