Pakistan’s premier fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi is set to return to the national T20I side for the upcoming white-ball tour of the West Indies, marking a significant boost for the team ahead of a crucial phase in the international cricket calendar.
As per journalist Au Rangzeb Younis, Shaheen will be one of three changes from the squad that last faced Bangladesh. The 25-year-old has not featured in a T20I since March, with selectors previously opting for fresh talent. White-ball coach Mike Hesson had outlined areas for improvement in Shaheen’s game, but with the Asia Cup on the horizon, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly decided to bring back the former captain.
Shaheen missed two recent series—both home and away—against Bangladesh. Now, as Pakistan prepares for a demanding tour of the West Indies in early August, the management is keen to reintegrate him into the squad to strengthen the bowling lineup.
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The tour, which includes both ODIs and T20Is, is expected to feature an experienced squad as selectors work to finalize the core team for the Asia Cup and the T20 World Cup. Fast bowlers Haris Rauf and Hasan Ali are also expected to return, likely replacing Ahmed Daniyal and Abbas Afridi.
With 102 wickets in 79 T20Is, Shaheen Afridi remains one of the most feared new-ball bowlers in global cricket. His comeback is anticipated to add much-needed firepower to Pakistan’s pace attack.
The official squad announcement for the West Indies series is expected soon, with Shaheen’s inclusion almost certain.
