Shaheen Afridi left in the dark as PCB mull T20I captain change
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is considering a captaincy change for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024, leaving current skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi in the dark about the decision.
According to sources, the board is leaning towards reappointing Babar Azam as captain. However, concerns persist as Babar himself is reluctant due to his past experiences. Wicket-keeper batting Mohammad Rizwan is also seen as an alternative option if Babar does not accept the captaincy.
The lack of communication with Shaheen Afridi has raised eyebrows. Neither Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) president Mohsin Naqvi nor other officials contacted him regarding the discussions.
Reports of a possible captaincy change have drawn criticism from a chorus of former cricketers, which also includes former skipper Shahid Afridi. They feel it is unfair to remove Shaheen after leading the team in just one series. Moreover, the PCB’s silence on the issue has surprised and concerned cricketing circles.
Shaheen, who actively planned for the upcoming World Cup during the recently concluded Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 9, played a pivotal role in convincing Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir to come out of retirement for national duties. He called on former stars to bolster the team’s performance.
However, there is uncertainty over whether Shaheen will remain captain of the Pakistan team for the T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to begin in the United States and West Indies. Whether they decide to keep it or revoke it, the PAC must be transparent and keep Shaheen informed throughout the process.