Afridi reacts on Shaheen's potential sacking as T20I captain

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Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi has voiced his thoughts amidst the swirling debates over the possibility of Shaheen Afridi being stripped of his captaincy in the shorter format before the T20 World Cup 2024, set to unfold in the USA and West Indies. 

Speaking to local media, Afridi underscored the need for patience and consistency in decision-making, especially when it comes to leadership positions within the team. 

"I think that if you have appointed someone as captain (Shaheen) and given him the responsibility then give him time as well," Afridi said.

"If you change the captain then either the decision to appoint him was wrong or the decision to change him now is wrong," he further added.

The former captain also pointed out a persistent issue within Pakistan cricket's administration, where frequent changes in the cricket board's personnel lead to shifts in strategies and decisions, often at the cost of long-term planning and stability.

"The biggest problem with our cricket is that our system changes whenever the faces change in the board. Whoever comes thinks whatever he is doing is the best for Pakistan cricket," he said.

The 47-year-old also praised the comeback of fast bowler Mohammad Amir and all-rounder Imad Wasim to the Pakistan national team.

"The decision of  Mohammad Amir and  Imad Wasim to come out of retirement is correct. If a player believes they can contribute to Pakistan, they should continue playing cricket. However, they will have to prove their fitness and be part of domestic cricket," he said.

"They both are senior and experienced players; their presence will strengthen the Pakistan cricket team, and young cricketers will learn from them," he added.

It is worth noting that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is preparing to reinstate Babar Azam as captain ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024.

According to details, Cricket Pakistan reported on March 12 that Shaheen Shah Afridi's T20I captaincy is under threat.

Initially, Mohammad Rizwan was a leading candidate to replace Shaheen, with Babar Azam also in contention. However, recent developments have positioned Babar as the primary candidate for the captaincy once again. PCB officials are close to finalizing their decision to entrust him with the role.