‘I can't believe it’ - Mickey Arthur expresses disbelief over Shaheen Afridi’s snub from Test squad against SA

Former Pakistan head coach Mickey Arthur recently came forward and criticised the PCB for not including ace pacer Shaheen Afridi in the Test squad for the upcoming South Africa series. It is worth noting that the Proteas will take on Pakistan across two Test matches, with the first Test beginning on December 26. 

Talking about Afridi’s omission, Mickey Arthur hailed the ace pacer and described him as a potential match-winner for Pakistan cricket. He described South Africa as one of the best places to play for a fast bowler and admitted that his abilities could have won games for Pakistan in the upcoming two Test matches. 

“I can't believe it. If he's not bowling in South Africa, then where the hell are they bowling him? It's the best place to bowl in the world, almost. Plus, he gives you a left-arm option. I know they have got Mir Hamza, but Shaheen is a game-breaker and match-winner. I'm not in the inner echelon in terms of knowing the ins and outs of why they haven't selected him, but on pure skill, I would have him in South Africa in any team I pick,” Arthur was quoted as saying. 

However, recent reports have emerged that have stated that Shaheen Afridi has opted out of the series to better prepare himself for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. It is worth noting that Afridi was also benched midway into Pakistan’s home Test series against England a couple of months ago.

There is no doubt that Afridi is Pakistan’s premier pace bowler, and the Men in Green will want him in top form if they are looking to get their hands on the Champions Trophy once again. Afridi left South Africa after the white ball series to fulfil his responsibilities for Fortune Barishal in the new edition of the BPL.