Shadab Khan’s return to Pakistan’s international cricket team has not been well-received by former captain Shahid Afridi, who has raised concerns about the all-rounder’s selection for Pakistan’s upcoming tour of New Zealand. Shadab, making his return to international cricket for the first time since 2024, has been named in Pakistan’s T20 squad for the five-match series against the Kiwis.
Shahid Afridi, speaking to the media in Karachi, voiced his displeasure over the team’s selection policies, particularly questioning Shadab Khan’s return to the squad. He cast doubt on whether merit was being properly considered in the selection process.
“No one knows how these players make their way back into the team. What performances has Shadab Khan shown in domestic cricket to justify his return?” Afridi remarked, highlighting what he perceives as inconsistencies in the selection process. He warned that if merit isn’t prioritized, the cycle of dropping and reintroducing players without clear justification will continue.
Shadab Khan’s last T20 appearance was in December 2024 during the Champions T20 Cup, where he scored just 12 runs and did not bowl a single over. Afridi is not alone in questioning Shadab’s return to the national team, not just as a player, but also as the vice-captain of the squad.
Shahid Afridi’s comments once again underscore the persistent issues with inconsistent selections in Pakistan cricket, leaving fans and analysts to wonder if the much-needed changes will ever materialize.