Shahid Afridi criticizes Wasim Akram over team changes suggestions

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has strongly reacted to swing legend Wasim Akram’s suggestion of msking major changes in the national cricket team.

Following Pakistan’s early exit from the ICC Champions Trophy, Wasim Akram, along with several other former cricketers, showed disappointment and suggested that five to six senior players should be dropped. He argued that despite their presence, the national team has failed to win major tournaments.

Speaking on Ten Sports, Wasim Akram criticized players like Mohammad Rizwan and urged selectors to make bold decisions to improve the team. He emphasized that Pakistan should start planning for the 2026 T20 World Cup immediately.

“We have been losing despite having these players for years. The time has come to make five to six big changes in the team. Even if we have to endure defeats for six months, we should support and give opportunities to young players,” said Wasim Akram.

However, Shahid Afridi, while speaking on a private TV channel, questioned Akram’s remarks and asked, “Wasim Bhai should tell me, if we drop five or six players, do we have replacements ready to take their place?”

Afridi added that removing big names from the squad could also lead to criticism, and if the desired results still don’t materialise, then what would be the next step. 

He further stated, “When new players come in, they will use the excuse that they are preparing for the World Cup, and then the process of ‘surgery’ will start all over again.”

It merits mention that Pakistan was knocked out of the ICC Champions Trophy in the first round after suffering humiliating defeats against New Zealand and India. 

Following immense criticism from fans and former cricketers, reports suggest that key players like Babar Azam, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, and Shaheen Shah Afridi may be rested for the upcoming tour of New Zealand.