Shahid Afridi Criticises Shaheen & Saim After Pakistan’s Loss To India

Pakistan’s heavy defeat against India in the Asia Cup 2025 has left fans and former cricketers frustrated. Shahid Afridi delivered a strong rebuke, not just to the team but also to his son-in-law, Shaheen Afridi.

Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan’s pace spearhead could not give wickets to Pakistan early on. Shaheen smashed 33 runs off 16 balls, including four sixes, helping Pakistan avoid being bowled out under 100. But Shahid Afridi was far from impressed.

“Thankfully, Shaheen scored some runs which helped our team go past 100. But I don’t want runs from Shaheen, I want wickets,” Afridi told Samaa TV. “Shaheen’s job is to swing the new ball and take early breakthroughs. He should focus on his game plan and bowl with intent.”

The former Pakistan captain also turned his attention to Saim Ayub, who surprisingly took five wickets in the tournament despite being in the squad as a batter. “I don’t want bowling from Saim Ayub. His role is to score runs. Players must understand their primary responsibilities,” Afridi said bluntly.

Pakistan’s performance against India has raised fresh concerns ahead of their must-win clash against UAE. A victory would take them into the Super 4 stage, where they could face India again on September 21. Afridi stressed that Shaheen needs to play “mind games” with the ball to win matches for Pakistan.

Afridi also said some harsh words on Pakistan’s cricketing structure, calling the country’s first-class cricket “third class.” He urged the PCB to put real investment into domestic cricket to prepare players for international challenges.

“You need to improve the domestic system in Pakistan. Invest money, bring qualified coaches, and build players with the right mindset,” Afridi said. “I’ve been saying this for years. I am requesting once again, please make the domestic system strong. That’s the only way forward for Pakistan cricket.”

Pakistan now face a do-or-die test against UAE. With inconsistent batting and overreliance on Shaheen in both departments, the team will need a collective effort to avoid another disappointment. Afridi’s words serve as a reminder that unless roles are defined and the system is fixed, Pakistan could continue to struggle against top sides.