In a calculated decision, Pakistan’s team management has opted to exclude star left-arm pacer Shaheen Afridi from the playing 11 in the upcoming PAK vs AUS 3rd Test. The move aims at strategic workload management, ensuring Afridi’s fitness for the impending five-match T20I series in New Zealand. Despite being lauded as a key player by Captain Shan Masood, Afridi’s substantial workload in the first two Tests necessitated a well-timed rest.
With frontline pacer Naseem Shah absent, Afridi carried a significant bowling burden, delivering nearly 100 overs – a workload surpassing that of any other player on both teams. Captain Masood acknowledged the need to balance Afridi’s workload and highlighted a broader effort to manage players who feature across all formats.
This strategic decision to rest Shaheen Afridi for the 3rd Test underscores Pakistan’s commitment to player fitness and readiness, aiming to keep the pace sensation fresh for the upcoming challenges, particularly the T20I series against New Zealand.
