Pakistan has recalled star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi and veteran spinner Noman Ali for the first Test against England, starting October 7th in Multan. The move comes after Pakistan suffered a disappointing series loss to Bangladesh. The selection sees the return of key players and a focus on experience for the upcoming challenge against England.
Bangladesh, riding high on a historic 10-wicket win in the first Test, aims to secure its first-ever Test series victory against Pakistan. The second Test, starting in Rawalpindi on Friday, sees Pakistan make changes, including resting star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi. While Pakistan seeks to bounce back, Bangladesh remains confident and looks to capitalize on its momentum.
Pakistan has opted against making significant changes to its Test squad for the upcoming series against Bangladesh, retaining key players like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi. Despite a disappointing T20 World Cup performance, the trio has been included, suggesting the board’s decision to move on from the tournament without disciplinary action. The squad also features two uncapped players, Mohammad Huraira and Kamran Ghulam, rewarded for their domestic performances.
During the second T20I between Pakistan and Ireland in Dublin, Pakistan paceman Shaheen Afridi was involved in an unpleasant incident with an Afghanistan fan who hurled foul language at him. The incident occurred as Afridi entered the field, and a video of the exchange has gone viral. Afridi maintained his composure despite the fan’s inappropriate remarks. Security personnel intervened and escorted the fan out of the stadium. Previously, Afridi had been nominated for the ICC Men’s Player of the Month Award for April 2024 alongside Gerhard Erasmus of Namibia and Muhammad Waseem of the UAE.
Pakistan’s Shaheen Afridi has ascended to the pinnacle of T20I bowling, ranking 17th globally according to the latest ICC rankings. Thriving in Pakistan’s home series against New Zealand, Afridi’s impressive performance, including pivotal wickets, has elevated him above Haris Rauf. England’s Adil Rashid retains the top spot, while Ish Sodhi of New Zealand rises to 18th. India’s Suryakumar Yadav dominates the batting rankings, with Tim Seifert and Mark Chapman of New Zealand making notable gains.
