KARACHI: Pakistan’s star pacer Shaheen Afridi is set to welcome his first child with his wife, Ansha Afridi, which may impact his availability for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh. National red-ball coach Jason Gillespie stated, “Shaheen can miss the Bangladesh Test matches due to childbirth. We can give him some rest if he wants to stay with his wife until then.”
The couple’s nikah was held in February 2023 at the Zakaria Mosque in Karachi, with the wedding and valima taking place later in September. Their wedding ceremony on September 19 was attended by various current and former cricketers, including Babar Azam, Misbah-ul-Haq, and Saeed Anwar, while the valima was celebrated in Islamabad on September 21.
Shaheen’s potential absence comes at a critical time, as the Green Shirts prepare for a two-match Test series against Bangladesh in August. Recently, he has been in the limelight for various reasons, including reported conflicts with the coaching staff. Sources indicate that he engaged in arguments with batting coach Mohammad Yousuf during Pakistan’s tour of England, just before the T20 World Cup 2024.
Adding to the drama surrounding his career, Shaheen was replaced as the white-ball captain by Babar Azam in March. He also declined the vice-captaincy role offered by the Pakistan Cricket Board for the recently concluded T20 World Cup, raising eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.
As the cricket community anticipates the arrival of Shaheen’s child, it remains to be seen how this significant life event will affect his professional commitments and performance on the field.
I am an accomplished graduate of Strategic Studies, driven by a fervent dedication to comprehending global affairs and devising impactful strategies. Equipped with a comprehensive skill set encompassing research, critical thinking, and persuasive communication, I possess a distinctive viewpoint and an unwavering commitment to fostering inclusive decision-making processes. As a versatile individual, I excel in collaborating with diverse groups in various settings, leveraging my strong interpersonal abilities to adapt seamlessly to new environments and surmount any challenges that arise. With a passion for contributing to strategic initiatives, I am eager to leverage my expertise and drive to effect positive change within the field.
