Former captain Wasim Akram has launched a scathing critique against the team management for not including Shaheen Afridi in the Sydney Test. In an interview with international media, Akram argued that the decision was not made by the team management but by Afridi himself. He challenged players to decide between greatness and financial gain. Akram emphasized that Shaheen Afridi is set to captain in the upcoming 5 T20 matches against New Zealand, considering this series as merely a financial benefit for both cricket boards. The cricketing legend stressed the importance of the Test format, asserting that cricketers should prioritize the traditional and pure form of the game. "If you talk to people about the Sydney Test 20 years ago, they will remember.

But ask about what happened yesterday, and no one will know," Akram remarked, underscoring the enduring significance of Test cricket. Waqar Younis, the national team's legendary fast bowler, also expressed his disapproval of Shaheen Afridi's decision to skip the Sydney Test. In an interview with a TV channel, Younis termed it "difficult" and questioned the rationale behind resting a player for a Test match, emphasizing the importance of preserving the survival of Test cricket. Younis expressed shock over Afridi's absence, stating, "Shaheen Afridi not playing in the Sydney Test was a real shock for me; I was expecting him to be included in the playing XI." Earlier, Wasim Akram had criticized the team management, echoing the sentiment that players must decide between pursuing greatness in the sport or financial success.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)