Shaheen Afridi Faces Scrutiny Over Pace in Bangladesh Test Series

Key facts

• Ramiz Raja called Shaheen Afridi a "medium pacer" during live commentary.
• The remark came during the first Test between Bangladesh and Pakistan on May 7.
• Shaheen Afridi dismissed Mahmudul Hasan Joy for eight runs in the first Test.
• Bangladesh won a historic 2-0 Test series sweep against Pakistan in 2024.
• Pakistan aims to improve its fifth-place standing in the ICC World Test Championship.
• Shaheen Afridi stated the team is focused on the World Test Championship, not past results.

Pace Under Fire Amidst Dhaka Test

During the opening Test between Bangladesh and Pakistan on May 7, former Pakistan captain and commentator Ramiz Raja publicly questioned the pace of star fast bowler Shaheen Afridi. Speaking on live commentary from the Shere Bangla National Stadium, Raja remarked that Afridi appeared to be bowling at a "medium pacer" speed, particularly when contrasted with the Bangladesh bowlers. The observation came as Pakistan, led by Shan Masood, elected to bowl first in the match, part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle. Despite the criticism, Afridi managed to create an immediate opportunity, eliciting an outside edge from the batter, though a dropped catch by a fielder prevented an early wicket. Shaheen Afridi eventually provided Pakistan with the first breakthrough, dismissing Mahmudul Hasan Joy for eight runs. The Bangladesh team concluded the opening session at 101 for 2, with Mominul Haque and captain Najmul Hossain Shanto at the crease.

Pakistan's Bowling Attack and Team Changes

The Pakistan pace attack for the first Test comprises Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali, and Mohammad Abbas, with spinner Sajid Khan not selected. This lineup faces the challenge of Bangladesh's quicks, including Nahid Rana, Ebadot Hossain, and the returning Taskin Ahmed. Pakistan's preparations for the series were impacted by a late change. Babar Azam experienced pain in his left knee on Thursday night, leading to Test debuts for Azan Awais and Abdullah Fazal in the opening match in Dhaka. Shan Masood had explained his decision to bowl first, citing visible grass on the Dhaka pitch. The team's bowling unit is tasked with securing a victory to improve their current fifth-place standing in the ICC World Test Championship.

Afridi Dismisses Past Defeats, Eyes Future Success

Despite the scrutiny over his bowling speed, Shaheen Afridi has firmly stated that the Pakistan team's focus is on the present and future, particularly their campaign in the ICC World Test Championship. He made it clear that dwelling on Bangladesh's historic 2-0 Test series sweep against Pakistan in 2024 is not on the team's agenda. "Personally, I do not want to dwell on it," Afridi said, emphasizing the team's objective to win the World Test Championship rather than just a single series. He acknowledged that playing in home conditions against any team is challenging. The Pakistan players have undertaken extensive preparation for the red-ball format, balancing workloads from the Pakistan Super League and engaging in practice sessions upon arrival. Afridi noted that the team bowled extra overs on side wickets and aimed for around 25 overs in the days leading up to the Test to acclimatize to the format.

Bangladesh's Ambitions and Strategic Approach

Bangladesh, buoyed by their memorable 2024 triumph, is also keen to build on that success and create new achievements on home soil. Head coach Phil Simmons indicated that the team views the upcoming series as a fresh challenge, irrespective of the confidence gained from their previous victory. The Bangladesh pace attack features Nahid Rana, Ebadot Hossain, and Taskin Ahmed, who returns after his last Test in late 2024. This formidable lineup will aim to exploit home conditions against the Pakistan batsmen. Pakistan entered the series seeking redemption after the 2024 whitewash. The current ICC World Test Championship cycle has seen Pakistan play two Tests, with one win and one defeat against South Africa.

The Stakes in the Test Championship

Pakistan's participation in this two-match Test series against Bangladesh is crucial for their standing in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship. Currently in fifth place, a strong performance is necessary to climb the standings and contend for the championship title. The team's preparation has involved dedicated red-ball practice, with players managing their fitness and bowling workloads to transition effectively from shorter formats. Afridi's comments underscore a strategic shift towards long-term goals, prioritizing the championship over individual series outcomes. Both teams are gearing up for a challenging contest, with Bangladesh aiming to replicate their past success and Pakistan determined to assert their dominance in the Test arena.

The bottom line

• Former cricketer Ramiz Raja has publicly criticized Shaheen Afridi's bowling speed during the first Test against Bangladesh.
• Shaheen Afridi has stated that the Pakistan team is focused on the ICC World Test Championship and not past results.
• Pakistan's bowling attack for the first Test includes Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali, and Mohammad Abbas.
• Bangladesh secured a historic 2-0 Test series victory over Pakistan in 2024.
• Pakistan is currently fifth in the ICC World Test Championship standings and aims to improve its position.
• The team underwent specific preparation for the Test series, including bowling practice to adapt to the format.