Shahid Afridi Backs Ahmed Shehzad & Umar Akmal for PSL 11, Questions Franchise Selection Strategy
Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi supports Ahmed Shehzad and Umar Akmal, urging PSL franchises to give experienced domestic performers a fair opportunity in PSL 11.
Shahid Afridi Supports Ahmed Shehzad and Umar Akmal for PSL 11 Selection
Former Pakistan cricket team captain Shahid Afridi has publicly backed Test cricketer Ahmed Shehzad and former international star Umar Akmal, questioning their exclusion from the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL).
Afridi raised concerns over the absence of both players in franchise cricket despite their consistent participation in domestic cricket and maintained fitness levels.
Afridi Questions Franchise Decisions in Pakistan Super League
Speaking recently on a television program, Afridi said that completely ignoring experienced players can create unnecessary issues—especially when they are actively playing domestic cricket and keeping themselves fit.
He added that with the expansion of PSL teams, there was an expectation that seasoned local cricketers would be given opportunities. According to Afridi, Ahmed Shehzad and Umar Akmal are regularly attending training sessions and have delivered strong performances in the past.
“These are quality players. They should not have been ignored to this extent. At least one franchise should have given them a chance,” Afridi stated.
“If I Were a Franchise Owner, I’d Pick Them” – Shahid Afridi
The former all-rounder clearly expressed that if he owned a franchise, he would definitely include both Ahmed Shehzad and Umar Akmal in his squad.
Afridi emphasized the importance of strong team management in handling senior and temperamentally different players. He explained that not all cricketers can be managed in the same way.
According to him, real coaching means understanding a player’s strengths and weaknesses to extract the best performance. Drawing from his experience as captain, Afridi highlighted that talented yet sensitive players require a different approach, which reflects high-level leadership.
Emotional Reactions and Support from Fans
Supporters of both cricketers have also expressed disappointment over their exclusion from PSL 11.
The situation turned emotional when Ahmed Shehzad became teary-eyed during a TV interview, stating that watching former teammates play while not being selected was extremely painful for him.
Meanwhile, Umar Akmal’s brother, Kamran Akmal, reportedly expressed frustration with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) over Umar Akmal’s name not being included in the PSL players’ auction list.
PSL 11 to Feature 8 Teams for the First Time
It is worth noting that the 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League will feature eight teams for the first time in league history. Alongside the existing franchises, two new teams — Hyderabad Houston Kings and Sialkot Stallions — will participate in the expanded tournament.
The addition of new franchises had raised hopes that experienced domestic performers would secure spots in PSL squads. However, the absence of Ahmed Shehzad and Umar Akmal has sparked debate within Pakistan cricket circles.
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