Shaheen Shah Afridi, Pakistan's top fast bowler, has opted out of the upcoming Test series against South Africa. He has prioritised his fitness for the
ICC Champions Trophy scheduled for February and March.
Shaheen has requested the team management and selectors not to consider him for the Test matches. He wants to ensure he is fully prepared for the Champions Trophy.
Pakistan's interim head coach and chief selector,
Aaqib Javed, confirmed Shaheen's absence from the South Africa Test squad. He explained that the decision was made to manage the fast bowler's workload. This will help him stay fresh for the Champions Trophy.
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ICC Champions Trophy Schedule "The truth is Shaheen himself requested he not be considered for Test matches until the Champions Trophy is over," a source said as quoted by PTI.
Shaheen has reportedly received a lucrative offer to play in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). He has communicated this to the team management and the Pakistan Cricket Board.
"He assured the management and board the money was very good and he would look after his fitness and workload during the event so he should be permitted to play in the league," the source added.
The BPL is scheduled to take place from December 30th to February 7th. During this period, Pakistan will be involved in a busy Test schedule.
Pakistan will play two Test matches against South Africa followed by another two-Test series against the West Indies at home.
Shaheen has assured the management that he will manage his workload during the BPL. He aims to be fully fit for the upcoming tri-series ODIs against New Zealand and South Africa.
"Shaheen said he would be fully fit in time for the tri-series ODIs against New Zealand and South Africa followed by the Champions Trophy at home," the source said.
"Shaheen told Aaqib he can be selected for tests once the Champions Trophy is completed," he added.
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