KARACHI: Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has reacted to the reported changes being considered in the national cricket team, calling for younger players with a strong desire to represent Pakistan to be given opportunities.
Speaking on a television programme, Akhtar said the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) was disappointed with the performances of the current players and was considering major changes to the squad.
Akhtar said he was particularly concerned about protecting the careers of Pakistan’s leading fast bowlers.
“I only want to save the careers of Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf,” Akhtar said, adding that all three still had the potential to contribute significantly to Pakistan cricket.
Notably, Akhtar did not include Babar Azam among the players he mentioned. Babar is currently leading Pakistan’s Test side and had missed the first Test against England due to injury.
He scored 8 and 6 runs in the second Test, increasing the pressure on him ahead of the third match.
Akhtar’s comments come amid growing debate over the composition and future direction of Pakistan’s national team, with calls for a greater focus on emerging talent and players capable of delivering consistently at the international level.