ISLAMABAD: Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has recommended resting key players Shadab Khan and Shaheen Shah Afridi for the fifth and final T20I against New Zealand, set to take place in Wellington on Wednesday.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Afridi stressed the importance of giving bench players a chance, especially with Pakistan already having lost the series following New Zealand’s dominant 115-run victory in the fourth match.
“For the final game, the players on the bench should be given a chance – with the series lost, Shadab and Shaheen can be rested and replacements given an opportunity,” Afridi wrote.
Pakistan’s campaign has been plagued by underwhelming performances, with both Shadab and Shaheen struggling to make an impact. Shadab, who rejoined the squad after the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, has scored just 30 runs in three innings at an average of 10, while managing only one wicket in four matches.
Shaheen, Pakistan’s premier fast bowler, has also endured a tough series, picking up just two wickets in as many matches at an average of 66.50 and an economy rate of 10.23.
Afridi’s suggestion comes as Pakistan looks to salvage some pride in the final match, potentially by testing its bench strength before future international assignments.
