(Source X)
Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan’s premier fast bowler, allegedly behaved inappropriately towards team coach Gary Kirsten and support staff during recent tours of Ireland, England, and the T20 World Cup 2024. An investigation is underway, and Afridi may face disciplinary action if allegations are substantiated.
Despite being a key wicket-taker for the team, Afridi struggled in the T20 World Cup, securing 5 wickets across four matches despite conducive bowling conditions.
Shaheen Afridi faces likely reprimand for misconduct with Gary Kirsten.
According to the report, Shaheen Afridi allegedly displayed inappropriate behavior towards head coach Gary Kirsten and assistant coach Azhar Mahmood, with no immediate action taken by team managers.
“Shaheen misbehaved with the coaches and management during recent tours but no action was taken by the team managers on the pacer’s inappropriate behaviour,” sources told Geo News.
The report highlighted that the responsibility for addressing Shaheen Afridi’s alleged behavior fell on the team manager, prompting an investigation into why no action was taken at the time.
“Maintaining discipline in the team was the responsibility of the managers which is why it is being investigated why action was not taken against Shaheen despite misbehaving,” the report stated.
The ongoing investigation may lead to Shaheen Afridi facing reprimand if allegations are proven true. Additionally, the PCB is investigating reports of player factions, with team coaches having lodged complaints with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi regarding recent disciplinary issues among players on tour.
“The board is also probing players who have lobbies and the benefit that is being gained from it. Sources have further said that the team’s coaches have complained to the PCB chairman about the non-seriousness of players and disciplinary violations in recent tours,” the report further added.
Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq sacked following Pakistan’s disappointing campaign.
Following Pakistan’s disappointing T20 World Cup 2024 campaign, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has removed Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq from their roles. As of now, there’s no update on Babar Azam’s captaincy, and he is expected to continue leading the team.
Pakistan suffered losses to USA and India in their first two matches, with Mohammad Amir controversially bowling the Super Over against USA instead of Shaheen Afridi. Amir’s over saw 18 runs conceded, including seven wides, leading to a defeat. Despite subsequent victories over Canada and Ireland, Pakistan’s tally fell short of advancing to the Super 8 stage by just one point compared to USA.
