Shaheen Shah Afridi Likely Out of Pakistan Test Plans
LAHORE - Pakistan ODI captain Shaheen Shah Afridi is unlikely to feature in the national Test setup for the foreseeable future after being left out of the Pakistan Cricket Board's red-ball training plans ahead of the upcoming tour of the West Indies. Sources close to the selection process indicate that the PCB has opted against including the left-arm fast bowler in a 22-member red-ball training camp, signalling a significant shift in Pakistan's Test strategy.
However, Afridi remains part of the 27-player white-ball pool and is expected to continue leading the national side in the 50-over format. The development comes as Pakistan begin preparations for a two-match Test series against the West Indies, scheduled to be played in Trinidad and Tobago from July 25 to August 6.
Selection Strategy Shift
According to sources, selectors and team management are increasingly focused on specialist red-ball players as they look to strengthen Pakistan's performance in the longer format. Concerns have reportedly been raised over Afridi's limited participation in first-class cricket, with officials believing regular four-day cricket is essential for maintaining the workload, rhythm and skill set required for Test matches.
The 26-year-old fast bowler last represented Pakistan in a Test against Bangladesh earlier this year. In that match, he returned figures of 3-113 in the first innings and 2-54 in the second as Pakistan suffered a disappointing defeat. He was subsequently omitted from the following Test, with pacer Khurram Shahzad taking his place.
Performance and Workload Concerns
Afridi's pace and effectiveness also came under scrutiny during the Bangladesh series, where he struggled to consistently reach the speeds that have made him one of the most feared fast bowlers in international cricket. His performances sparked debate about his workload management and long-term role across formats.
Since making his Test debut against New Zealand in 2017, Afridi has played 34 Tests and claimed 126 wickets, establishing himself as a key member of Pakistan's pace attack. However, the latest developments suggest selectors are reassessing his red-ball future while continuing to view him as a vital asset in limited-overs cricket.
Upcoming Preparations
The PCB recently announced separate camps for red-ball and white-ball players, with the Test camp running until July 10 and a dedicated preparation camp for the West Indies tour expected to begin shortly afterwards. Pakistan are currently enjoying a break from international cricket following their ODI series triumph over Australia.
Their next assignment will be the two-Test Caribbean tour, where a reshaped pace attack could take centre stage as the team seeks to make a strong start to its new World Test Championship cycle.
