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Shaheen Afridi Needs Game Time; Reasons Why Pakistan Should Play Him In All ODI Matches vs WI

Probuddha Bhattacharjee

Shaheen Afridi [Source: AFP Media]Shaheen Afridi [Source: AFP Media]

Pakistan is all set to take on the West Indies in a three-match ODI series. This comes after the T20I series, which the Asian team clinched by winning the decider. 

One of the key players of the team and probably the biggest match-winner for Pakistan, Shaheen Afridi, played only two of the three games in the T20I series. As the ODI series approaches, the Mohammad Rizwan-led side must look to give their prime pacer more game. Here are three reasons - 

3. The T20 World Cup Is Coming Up

The T20 World Cup is coming in February 2026. Leading up to the tournament, Pakistan need to keep all their key players in shape. Shaheen Afridi has the typical ability to run through the top orders with the new ball in hand. This makes him an entity who can change the context of a match very quickly. So, a bowler of his calibre needs to keep his engine running and peak at the right time for the marquee tournament. 

2. Experience To Groom The Current Bowling Attack

The Pakistan bowling attack is regrouping itself. Haris Rauf and Shaheen Afridi are the biggest stars in the attack. Besides, Afridi already has the experience of playing in high-pressure situations and delivering for his team. So, Shaheen Afridi, with his expertise, can groom the younger bowlers to deliver their best when the T20 World Cup arrives. 

1. Brushing Up His All-Rounder Skills

Shaheen Afridi is already a champion bowler, and there is no doubt about that. But in the international arena, Afridi is yet to deliver with the bat. However, the southpaw has often shown in league cricket, like the PSL, that he can bat and can be pretty handy with the skill. During this relatively less important ODI series, Pakistan can give him a bit more opportunity with the bat and help him develop the skill further, adding depth to their batting order.