Lobbying against Shaheen Afridi? [Source: @Iam_Mian/X.com]
Rift in Pakistan camp is nothing new as the news has circulated many times in the past. However, another fresh report has emerged which states that senior Pakistan players are against Shaheen Afridi and the rift dated back to last year's New Zealand tour when he was the T20I captain.
Seniors lobbying against Shaheen?
As per senior Pakistan journalist, Shoaib Jatt, who works for Samaa TV and ARY News official, reported that during the Pakistan tour of New Zealand in 2024, the Men in Green had a disappointing series and after the game in Dunedin, Shaheen gathered the Pakistan players and urged them to perform at their best.
He also stated that if the players and the management want, he can resign from the captaincy post. This statement of his didn't go well with the senior players and somehow, they were responsible for his sacking as the skipper.
He further added that the seniors don't want Shaheen in the side as they feel he destroys the dressing room environment.
Shaheen wanted Babar to bat at 3
As per Shoaib Jatt, Shaheen, during his captainct tenure wanted Babar to bat at number 3 in T20Is and was keen to put Saim Ayub at the opening slot. However, for the T20 World Cup, the Pakistan team management had different ideas as they focused on having Babar as the opener and the decision was instantly regretted as the star batter flopped in the tournament.
After the New Zealand series, last year, Shaheen was removed as the captain after just one series and Babar was given the captaincy back.