Shaheen Afridi Set To Retire From Test Cricket? Pacer's Latest Move Sparks Speculations

Shaheen planning to retire? [Source: @rahimwaqas284/X.Com]

Shaheen Afridi has created controversy with a bizarre decision ahead of the South Africa Test series. The star pacer has opted out of the series against the Proteas in order to focus on the upcoming Champions Trophy.

The pacer requested PCB not to include him in the South Africa Tests due to the workload management issues as he wants to be hundred percent fit for the Champions Trophy set to take place in February-March.

"The truth is Shaheen himself requested he not be considered for Test matches until the Champions Trophy is over," a source said, as quoted by PTI.

So, the big question arises, is Shaheen contemplating retirement from Tests?.

As of now, the star Pakistan pacer hasn't decided on his future, but his sudden decision has sparked the latest retirement rumours. Test cricket takes a lot on toll on fast bowlers and Shaheen wants to prolong his international career.

Recurring injury issues might force Shaheen to retire

Since 2022, Shaheen has suffered plenty of injuries which has hampered his career. He suffered a severe knee injury and it reduced his bowling speed, which in turn affected his performance.

Prior to his injury, Shaheen was a force to reckon with, but since the T20 World Cup in 2022, his performance has suffered a lot in the longest format.

Shaheen Afridi Test stats in 2024

The year 2024 has been horrendous for the Pakistan speedster. In 2 matches, he has only scalped 3 wickets at an average of 72. As a result of his poor performance, Shaheen was also dropped from the last two Tests Vs England.

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