Shaheen Afridi Expected to Captain Pakistan in Thrilling Afghanistan T20I Series

Afghanistan vs Pakistan 2023

The news of Afghanistan hosting Pakistan for three Twenty20 cricket internationals in Sharjah has created a buzz among cricket enthusiasts worldwide. This series is expected to be highly competitive and thrilling, with unexpected twists and turns. Afghanistan is looking forward to proving its worth against one of the strongest cricketing nations, while Pakistan is keen to showcase its dominance on the field. The matches will take place in the United Arab Emirates, adding to the excitement. Both teams have  exceptional cricketing talent, and fans can expect a spectacle that will be remembered for years to come. Brace yourself for a remarkable showdown between two cricketing giants as Afghanistan and Pakistan clash in a series that is sure to be sensational.

As per sources cited by Geo News, the captain of Pakistan's cricket team, Babar Azam, is expected to be rested for the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan, with Shaheen Shah Afridi potentially taking over as stand-in captain. In addition to Babar, Mohammad Rizwan is also likely to be rested for the series to be held in the UAE. The selectors are expected to consider batters Saim Ayub, Haseebullah Khan, and Azam Khan, along with pacer Ihsanullah for selection. All-rounders Faheem Ashraf and Imad Wasim are also said to be in contention for selection. This news follows the recent revision of the schedule for the T20I series between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

According to a statement released by the Afghanistan Cricket Board, the previously scheduled three-match T20I series between Afghanistan and Pakistan, which was supposed to take place on March 25, 27 and 29 at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, has been rescheduled. The series will now start on March 24 and end on March 27 in the same stadium. The reason for this change is the unavailability of the Hawk-Eye Technology on the previously agreed-upon dates. The two boards mutually agreed to change the itinerary to ensure that all necessary broadcast technologies are available for the inaugural T20I series between the two countries.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly considering appointing Muhammad Yousuf, a former Pakistani cricketer, as the temporary head coach for the national men's team during their upcoming series against Afghanistan. This decision appears to be a result of the PCB's inability to reach an agreement with Mickey Arthur regarding the role of head coach.

Revised Schedule:

March 24: 1st T20I, Sharjah

March 26: 2nd T20I, Sharjah

March 27: 3rd T20I, Sharjah