Shahid Afridi raises concerns over Pakistan's team selection for New Zealand T20Is

Former Pakistan captain and legendary all-rounder Shahid Afridi has voiced his frustration over the national team’s selection for the ongoing five-match T20I series against New Zealand. 

Speaking to the media during an event, Afridi criticized the team’s composition, particularly the lack of experience in the squad, and raised concerns over the selection choices.

Afridi pointed out that the selection committee had picked pacers for conditions that were more suited for spinners. He also mentioned that several selected players had limited experience, with only 10 to 11 first-class matches under their belt.

“They sent first-class players with just 10-11 matches experience. Where spinners were needed, they picked pacers or extra spinners,” Afridi said.

In addition to the selection concerns, Afridi also questioned the role of batting coach Mohammad Yousuf, saying that teaching players how to play off-spin was unnecessary at the international level. 

“This isn’t something that should be taught at the Pakistan team level,” Afridi remarked.

The former captain emphasized the importance of managing players' workloads, especially for key players like Babar Azam. He believes players, including Babar, should be given adequate breaks to avoid burnout.

“Players need to be given breaks, whether it’s Babar Azam or anyone else,” Afridi stated.

Afridi also expressed disappointment over the lack of opportunities for young pacer Mohammad Hasnain and wicketkeeper-batter Usman Khan, both of whom have spent a long time on the bench without getting a chance to play.

“Usman Khan and Mohammad Hasnain are not being given opportunities. They have been warming the bench for a long time,” he added.

The former hard-hitting batter also criticized the national team’s batting approach, suggesting that many players are trying to emulate his aggressive style, which he believes is not always suitable for every match.

“Everyone seems to be trying to play like Shahid Afridi. You can’t score 200 in every match,” Afridi said.

Afridi also called for a permanent Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman and questioned the treatment of captains, particularly Mohammad Rizwan. While admitting that Babar Azam had been given ample opportunities as captain, he questioned why Rizwan only had a brief tenure.

“The board needs a permanent chairman. Babar Azam was given ample opportunities as captain, but why Mohammad Rizwan was only given six months in the role,” he concluded.