Speaking to a private TV channel in Dubai, Shaheen Afridi said that such stories of team differences are only heard from outsiders and have no connection with reality. He added that minor disagreements exist everywhere, even in families, but they should not be blown out of proportion.
Shaheen stressed that internal matters of the team should not be discussed outside. “Everyone has their own perspective, and we should respect people’s views. Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have given great services to Pakistan and deserve appreciation,” he said.
He further added that the squad selected for the Tri-Nation Series and Asia Cup must be supported. “Our team is filled with young talent, and as they continue to play more, it will benefit Pakistan cricket in the long run,” he remarked.
Shaheen highlighted that the team arrived in the UAE well before the Asia Cup to prepare thoroughly. The upcoming Tri-Nation Series will help the team polish their game before shifting full focus to the mega Asia Cup tournament.
The Pakistan squad announced for the Tri-Nation Series and Asia Cup will be led by Salman Ali Agha. Notable names include Fakhar Zaman, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Saim Ayub, Khushdil Shah, and Hussain Talat. Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Mohammad Haris, and spinner Abrar Ahmed are also part of the team. Youngsters like Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Mirza, and Sufyan Muqeem are among the rising stars included.
The Tri-Nation T20 series between Pakistan, Afghanistan, and UAE will be played in Sharjah from 29 August to 7 September. Right after this, the Asia Cup will take place from 9 to 28 September in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, featuring all major cricketing nations from the region.
Read more: Pakistan Shaheens edge Nepal by 1 run in thriller - semi-final spot secured
Shaheen Afridi’s statement comes at a crucial time when rumours of internal rifts could have derailed the team’s morale ahead of two major tournaments. By addressing the issue openly, he not only defended his teammates Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan but also reinforced the message of unity.
The inclusion of young players like Sufyan Muqeem, Salman Mirza, and Hasan Nawaz highlights Pakistan’s long-term vision of grooming fresh talent while relying on the experience of players like Fakhar Zaman and Haris Rauf.
With back-to-back tournaments scheduled in the UAE, the Pakistan team faces both opportunity and challenge. Success in the Tri-Nation Series will set the tone for the Asia Cup, where every performance will be under the spotlight. Unity, as Shaheen hinted, may just be Pakistan’s strongest weapon.
