Shaheen Shah Afridi has dismissed reports of his potential absence from the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka by sharing a video on Twitter. The footage shows Shaheen practicing with the red ball, expressing his eagerness to make a comeback in the longer format of the game. In his tweet, Shaheen mentioned that the red ball has a unique feel and significance in Test cricket.
“Red ball has a different vibe. It’s 🕰️! #TestMatch 🇵🇰🏏” Shaheen tweeted on his Twitter profile.
Red ball has a different vibe. It’s 🕰️!#TestMatch 🇵🇰🏏 pic.twitter.com/MLhKwZNLuk
— Shaheen Shah Afridi (@iShaheenAfridi) June 13, 2023
Earlier, a local media outlet had suggested that Shaheen might skip the Test series against Sri Lanka in July, citing concerns over his workload management before the upcoming ODI World Cup. However, Shaheen’s video seems to contradict these reports, indicating his intention to participate in the Test matches.
Currently, Shaheen is representing Nottinghamshire in England’s T20 Blast and has performed impressively, taking 13 wickets in nine matches. Amidst concerns about his workload, the team management, including coach Mickey Arthur, has been closely monitoring Shaheen’s progress. Arthur addressed these concerns on Twitter, stating that Shaheen actually needs to increase his workload to be better prepared for Test cricket. He emphasized that Shaheen’s bowling loads are being continuously monitored to ensure his readiness for the longer format.
Shaheen’s red-ball practice video and the team management’s active involvement in monitoring his workload provide reassurance that he is committed to playing in the Test series against Sri Lanka. Fans and supporters will be eagerly awaiting his return to the Test arena after his last appearance in July 2022.
