Shaheen Afridi Out! Changes In Pakistan Test Squad Vs England, West Indies Explained

Shaheen Afridi dropped from Pakistan squad vs WI, ENG [Source: AFP]

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made bold selection calls ahead of the upcoming Test tours of England and West Indies.

On Sunday, the PCB selection committee, comprising Aqib Javed, Asad Shafiq, and Misbah-ul-Haq, announced a 16-member squad for the two-match Test series against West Indies and a 17-member squad for England tour. Meanwhile, Babar Azam has returned as Pakistan’s Test captain, marking another significant development.

However, the biggest talking point remains the omission of several senior players, including Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali, and Noman Ali. 

The decisions come in the aftermath of Pakistan’s disappointing 2-0 Test series defeat to Bangladesh, which suggests that the selectors are focused on rebuilding the squad with a long-term vision.

Major Changes In PAK Test Squad vs West Indies, England

Shaheen Afridi

Shaheen Afridi's exclusion has undoubtedly raised eyebrows. Although the PCB has officially stated that his omission is based on conditions and format-specific planning rather than being a reflection of the left-arm pacer's ability.

However, his recent performances in the longest format have not been up to his usual standards. Since 2025, Shaheen has featured in just three Tests, claiming 10 wickets from 87 overs at an ordinary average of 31. 

While those numbers are respectable, they fall short of the high standards he has consistently set throughout his career. It is also important to note that Pakistan have left him out of the Test squad on multiple occasions in recent times.

Meanwhile, workload management appears to be one of the key factors behind the decision. With the ODI World Cup 2027 on the horizon, Pakistan may be aiming to protect their premier fast bowler from an excessive workload and reduce the risk of injuries.

Therefore, the selectors might have decided that a break would benefit both the player and the Men in Green.

Also Read: 3 Major Problems To Address For Babar Azam As Pakistan's Test Captain

Hasan Ali

Another notable omission is experienced pacer Hasan Ali. It can be said that his exclusion is taken due to Pakistan's apparent shift towards investing in a younger pace unit. 

Instead of relying on experienced names, the selectors have backed young and raw pacers such as Ubaid Shah and Khurram Shehzad.

Furthermore, Hasan Ali has struggled to consistently regain his best form in Test. Since 2025, the 32-year-old has picked up only eight wickets in three Tests, while his pace and effectiveness have noticeably declined during recent tours.

Additionally, he has frequently moved in and out of the Test setup, making it difficult to establish continuity. Consequently, Pakistan's management appears to have prioritised long-term planning over experience.

Noman Ali

Perhaps the most surprising omission is veteran left-arm spinner Noman Ali. Interestingly, he was also left out of the recent Bangladesh Tests, and his absence has continued for the England and West Indies tours.

From a strategic perspective, Pakistan seem determined to refresh their squad by introducing younger players. At 39 years of age, Noman may have fallen victim to that transition despite producing impressive performances. 

Since 2025, the spinner has claimed 34 wickets in just five Tests, which clearly reflects his effectiveness in red-ball cricket.

Nevertheless, the selectors have instead shown faith in Ali Usman, who is yet to make his international debut. His domestic record is certainly encouraging, having taken 192 wickets in 53 first-class matches at an economy rate of 2.98. As a result, Pakistan appear willing to invest in emerging talent.

Also Read: 3 Major Problems To Address For Babar Azam As Pakistan's Test Captain