Shaheen Afridi Steps Away from Test Cricket, Joins T20 League for Extended Break
Shaheen Afridi has opted out of Pakistan's upcoming Test series against South Africa, citing workload management ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy in February-March. He requested not to be considered for Tests until the Champions Trophy, as he plans to play in the Bangladesh Premier League from December 30 to February 7, ensuring his fitness for upcoming key events.
Pakistan team will be going to the South Africa series without their star fast bowler, Shaheen Shah Afridi, who has requested a break from Test cricket. Afridi’s decision comes ahead of the two-match Test series against South Africa, set to begin on December 26, 2024.
The left-arm pacer has opted out to manage his workload and ensure he is fully fit for the ICC Champions Trophy scheduled for February-March 2025. In lieu of playing Tests, Afridi has joined the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), which runs from December 30 to February 7, 2025. The management said:
The truth is Shaheen himself requested he not be considered for Test matches until the Champions Trophy is over. He assured the management and board the money was very good and he would look after his fitness and workload during the event so he should be permitted to play in the league.
He has assured both the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and team management that he will manage his fitness during the T20 league. Afridi is expected to return to action for the tri-series ODIs against New Zealand and South Africa, followed by the Champions Trophy, and has committed to playing Tests again after the tournament.
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