Shaheen, Shadab under scrutiny as Pakistan weighs changes

After losing the T20I series 3-1, the Pakistan team management is considering making some changes for the fifth match in Wellington. The underwhelming performances of senior players Shaheen Afridi and Shadab Khan have raised concerns, prompting the team management to rethink their strategy.

Shadab Khan, who was unexpectedly brought back into the team and made vice-captain, has struggled throughout the series. In the four matches played, he has only managed to score 30 runs. Additionally, he has bowled 11 overs, conceding 110 runs and taking just one wicket.

Shaheen Afridi's form has also been a cause for concern. In four matches, he has bowled 13 overs, giving away 133 runs and taking just two wickets at an average of 66.50. In contrast, Haris Rauf has been impressive, taking 8 wickets at an average of 9.50.

In terms of batting, Salman Ali Agha and Hassan Nawaz have been Pakistan’s top performers, with 116 and 106 runs, respectively, across the four matches. However, the team has not given opportunities to players like Omair Bin Yousaf, Sufiyan Maqeem, and Usman Khan during the series.

Meanwhile, former captain Shahid Afridi has suggested that Shaheen Afridi and vice-captain Shadab Khan be rested for the final match. Afridi tweeted on social media platform X, proposing that the players who have been on the bench should be given a chance in the last match.

Afridi stated, "For the final game, the players on the bench should be given a chance - with the series lost, Shadab and Shaheen can be rested and replacements given an opportunity."

In the meantime, the Pakistan team will begin preparations for the final match with a practice session on Tuesday. The team arrived in Wellington from Mount Maunganui on Monday. The performance of the team in the T20 series has raised concerns among the management, and experts are offering criticism.

In the fourth match, Pakistan suffered its worst defeat in history, losing by 115 runs, while New Zealand recorded their biggest win. 

Captain Salman Ali Agha said, "The ball was swinging more in the second innings, but we will try to play better in the final match."