'Smart Decision, Rubbish PCB!' Fans Divided Over Dropping Shaheen Afridi From Sydney Test
Shaheen Shah Afridi has been rested from Sydney Test [X.com]
Ahead of the third and final Test against Australia commencing tomorrow in Sydney, Team Pakistan did the unthinkable and rested vice-captain Shaheen Shah Afridi from the playing XI.
In the series, Afridi has looked out of form and lost most times, claiming just eight wickets in two Test, which includes a four-for in the Melbourne encounter, where glimpses of the bowler could be seen.
Reports floating in the media did suggest that Afridi is facing fitness issues, and keeping in mind the upcoming T20I series in New Zealand, which the left-arm pacer will be captaining, the 23-year-old could be rested for the New Year Test.
The exclusion of Pakistan's prime speedster has received with a mix response of social media, where few have lauded management resting Afridi, while others have ridiclued the player for his lack of fitness.
Masood on Shaheen's exclusion
Skipper Masood has stated that resting Afridi was a call of the hour, given the bowlers contribution in the post few years.
"Shaheen Afridi has bowled most overs in world cricket in recent times. He gives his 150% in the training sessions as well. He keeps motivating his teammates. He is our main player. We'll make sure we look after Shaheen Afridi really well."
Pakistan have included spinner Sajid Khan in-place of Afridi, with Aamer Jamal, Mir Hamza, and Hasan Ali spearing heading the pacer attack.
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