(AFP Photo)
Shaheen Afridi, the renowned Pakistani fast bowler, has come under scrutiny for alleged misconduct by the current coaching team comprising Gary Kirsten and Azhar Mahmood.
Kirsten reportedly filed a detailed report with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), citing instances of Afridi’s behavioral issues extending from the T20I series against Ireland through to the T20 World Cup 2024, as per reports from Pakistani news outlet Samaa News.
According to the report, ” Shaheen Afridi from the Ireland T20I series, England T20I series and the T20 World Cup 2024, has been accused of bad behaviour by Gary Kirsten and Azhar Mahmood. No action was taken against the pacer and he continued to misbehave and has also been accused of lobbying”.
The revelation is poised to send shockwaves through the Pakistan cricket community, as Afridi continues to hold a crucial position in the national team’s future, though this may now be in jeopardy pending the outcome of the allegations.
Despite high expectations and being touted as favorites to advance alongside arch-rivals India, the 2009 T20 World Cup champions failed to showcase their best form. Led by Babar Azam, the team’s disappointing campaign saw them exit the tournament early, suffering defeats to unexpected opponents such as the USA in their opener, followed by a loss to India.
Following Babar Azam’s resignation from the T20I captaincy after Pakistan’s disappointing outing in the 2023 ODI World Cup, Shaheen Afridi was appointed as his successor. However, after a series loss against New Zealand on home soil, Babar was reinstated as the white-ball captain, but the change did not reverse the team’s fortunes.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has yet to issue an official statement on the matter. Just yesterday, the board announced the removal of former international cricketers Abdur Razzaq and Wahab Riaz from their roles in the selection committee.
Looking ahead, Pakistan is scheduled to face Bangladesh in a two-match Test series at home in August. The role of Shaheen Afridi in the team and whether the PCB will take action based on the allegations against him remain uncertain pending further developments.
