The return of Babar Azam as Pakistan’s T20I captain for the upcoming New Zealand series and the T20 World Cup has been overshadowed by controversy and a cryptic message from the player he replaced, Shaheen Afridi.
Babar Azam back at helm
Babar Azam’s return comes after he stepped down from captaincy in all formats following Pakistan’s disappointing World Cup campaign in November 2023. Shaheen was then handed the reins, but his tenure lasted only five T20Is on the tour of New Zealand, which Pakistan lost 4-1.
Shaheen Afridi Removal Sparks Discontent
The decision to remove Shaheen has surprised many, including his father, Shahid Afridi, who believes Shaheen wasn’t given a fair chance. Fans have also expressed disappointment, feeling he deserved more time to prove himself.
Shaheen Afridi Instagram post
Adding fuel to the fire, Shaheen posted a cryptic message on Instagram, hinting at frustration and a potential darker side to his personality. Whether this is directly related to the captaincy change remains unclear.
Instagram post read:
“Never ever put me in a position where I have to show you how cruel and ruthless I can be. Don’t test my patience because I might be the kindest and sweetest person you’ve ever met. But once I reach my limit you’ll see me do the things that no one thought I was capable of doing.”
Political Maneuvering?
Speculation abounds that Shaheen Afridi’s removal might have political undertones. With a new chairman at the helm of the PCB, some believe Shaheen’s perceived loyalty to the previous administration led to his ousting. This wouldn’t be the first time political considerations influenced Pakistani cricket leadership.
PCB handling raises questions
The PCB’s handling of the situation has also drawn criticism. They released a statement supposedly from Shaheen expressing his support for Babar, but reports claim Shaheen never authorized it. This further fuels the perception of unrest within the team.
Uneasy Truce and Unanswered Questions
Shaheen and the PCB chairman reportedly met, and a picture of them shaking hands was released, but the tension remains palpable. Whether this is a genuine reconciliation or simply a facade for public consumption is unknown.
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Uncertainties Remain in Pakistan Cricket Team
With the New Zealand series and the World Cup looming, key questions remain. How will Shaheen Afridi respond to his removal? Will he be included in the squad, and if so, will he be a disruptive force? These uncertainties create a sense of unease for Pakistani cricket fans.
Babar Azam undoubtedly has his work cut out for him. He needs to lead the team effectively on the field while also managing the potential discontent of a talented fast bowler who feels wronged. The success of the Pakistan team in the upcoming tournaments will depend heavily on their ability to navigate these internal conflicts and present a united front.
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