Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan‘s leading pacer, is gearing up for a significant comeback in Test cricket. He’s set his sights on the two-match Test series in Sri Lanka, slated to kick off on July 16, as his return to the red-ball format for Pakistan. This marks a crucial milestone for the pacer, following a tumultuous 2022 season marked by injuries.
Shaheen’s journey in the previous year resembled a roller coaster ride. A knee ligament injury in July forced him to sit out the Asia Cup, hosted by the United Arab Emirates. Despite the absence of their star pacer, Pakistan successfully advanced to the finals of the continental event. Unfortunately, they fell short in the final stretch, succumbing to Dasun Shanaka’s side by 23 runs.
Commenting on Shaheen’s return, Rasheed stated that player workload and health are paramount considerations. He emphasized that they rely on a comprehensive medical panel to guide decisions regarding player participation. Moreover, the personal choice of the player is also a significant factor in the equation.
Rasheed acknowledged Shaheen’s fitness struggles over the past year and a half. He explained that an athlete’s return from injury necessitates more active cricket, as opposed to net practice. Bowling in nets doesn’t offer the same level of match fitness required for actual gameplay, making it crucial for players like Shaheen to engage in active cricket matches.
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In a bid to facilitate Shaheen’s comeback, Rasheed revealed that they’ve requested a county team to let Shaheen play in a three-day match. This strategy will provide Shaheen with ample opportunities to bowl, significantly aiding his recovery process. Rasheed assured that all factors have been thoroughly considered before finalizing Shaheen’s inclusion in the squad.
Rasheed emphasized that their decision is based on exhaustive research, reflecting a keen consideration of player workload. Player induction is not a hasty process, but a detailed assessment of workload management and individual player’s physical readiness. Rasheed concluded by assuring that every aspect has been carefully reviewed before bringing Shaheen back into the fray.
In conclusion, Shaheen Afridi’s return is highly anticipated by both his team and fans. His upcoming participation in the Test series in Sri Lanka marks an important moment in his career. It shows his resilience, determination, and readiness to contribute significantly to Pakistan’s cricket success. With a comprehensive strategy in place to manage his workload and ensure his match fitness, Shaheen’s return is expected to boost Pakistan’s performance in the upcoming Test series. His return will undoubtedly be a spectacle to behold as he attempts to reclaim his status as Pakistan’s pace spearhead.
