Shaheen Afridi kept in dark as PCB mulls T20I captaincy change

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is mulling a change in captaincy for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024, leaving current skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi in the dark about the decision. 

According to sources, the board is leaning towards reappointing Babar Azam as captain. However, concerns linger as Babar himself is reluctant due to past experiences. Wicket-keeper batter Mohammad Rizwan is also being considered as an alternative option if Babar doesn't accept the captaincy.

The lack of communication with Shaheen Afridi has raised eyebrows. Neither the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi nor other officials have reached out to him regarding the discussions. 

Reports of a potential captaincy change have drawn criticism from a chorus of former cricketers, which also includes former skipper Shahid Afridi. They believe that it's unfair to remove Shaheen after only leading the team in one series. Additionally, the PCB's silence on the matter has surprised and concerned cricket circles.

Shaheen, who has been actively planning for the upcoming World Cup during the recently concluded Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 9, played a pivotal role in convincing Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir to come out of retirement for national duties. He reached out to the former stars to bolster the team's performance.

However, there are uncertainties about whether Shaheen will continue as the captain of the Pakistan team for the T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to commence in the USA and West Indies. Whether they decide to retain him or remove him, the PCB should be transparent and keep Shaheen informed throughout the process.