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'What Has Babar Done?' - Ahmed Shehzad Blasts PCB For Turning Shaheen Into A Scapegoat

Babar Azam has also been in abysmal form (X)Babar Azam has also been in abysmal form (X)

In a move that has stirred significant controversy, Pakistan has decided to bench their premier fast bowler, Shaheen Afridi, as they scramble to save face in their home Test series against Bangladesh.

The decision comes on the heels of a crushing ten-wicket defeat in the first Test at Rawalpindi—a match that marked Pakistan's first-ever loss to Bangladesh on home soil. 

The defeat also set a historic milestone for Bangladesh, who secured their first 10-wicket victory in Test cricket, either home or away.

Shehzad questions other players as Pakistan drop Shaheen

Pakistan's choice to field four fast bowlers on a dry, spin-friendly pitch in Rawalpindi was widely criticised. In response, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has recalled spinner Abrar Ahmed, who will likely feature in the playing XI for the second Test.

However, the decision to drop Shaheen Afridi has sparked a firestorm on social media, with reactions pouring in from all quarters.

While some have supported the move, arguing it was necessary for a shake-up, others, including Pakistan cricketer Ahmed Shehzad, have vehemently opposed it.

Shehzad, known for his outspoken views, took to Twitter to express his frustration. He posted a video with the caption, "Eagle Hunted Down. Shaheen Afridi Dropped!"

In the video, Shehzad did not mince words as he launched a scathing critique of the decision and the broader state of Pakistan cricket.

"You lost to Zimbabwe, Ireland, USA, India, and now Bangladesh. Is Shaheen Afridi the only one responsible? Everyone involved in these losses should be held accountable. Sure, his form has dipped, and there are talks about attitude issues, but is dropping him the solution? What about the others? What has Abdullah Shafique done in the last Tests? What has Saim Ayub contributed? And Babar Azam—what has he achieved in his last 14 Test innings?"

Shehzad continued, "Pakistan cricket won't get back on track by singling out Shaheen. Everyone must be held accountable. The country comes first, and no one is bigger than that. PR stunts and personal milestones won't save you. The PCB officials know the truth, and it's high time they summon everyone responsible if they genuinely want Pakistan cricket to move in the right direction."

As Pakistan prepares to face Bangladesh again on Friday, August 30, all eyes will be on the team's performance—and the fallout from this bold, yet contentious, decision to bench their fast-bowling spearhead.