Pakistani cricketer Junaid Khan has expressed his belief that fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi and leg-spinner Shadab Khan should not have taken part in the ongoing T20 Blast in England.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Khan stated that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) should be cautious with senior players in the national team, considering the upcoming World Cup and the importance of maintaining their form.
Junaid opined that it would have been better if the PCB had advised Shaheen to focus on his fitness and take some rest instead of allowing him to play in the league. He emphasized that Shaheen, who plays in all three formats, is a vital player for Pakistan and should be preserved for upcoming series and the World Cup.
He justified his stance by highlighting Shaheen’s recent return from injury and his struggles in the two matches he played. Junaid also expressed concern about Shadab’s fitness issues and the decision to allow him to participate in the league, urging the PCB to consider these factors.
However, Junaid acknowledged the benefits of league cricket in England for young players like Usama Mir and Zaman Khan, who can learn and gain experience from such opportunities. He emphasized that allowing players like Shaheen and Shadab to participate in these leagues poses a risk of potential injuries, questioning the responsibility in such cases.
Overall, Junaid believes that senior players should prioritize their fitness and preparation for the World Cup 2023, while league participation can be more beneficial for emerging talents.
