Why Shaheen Afridi Isn't Playing Australia vs Pakistan 3rd Test At SCG

Even though Pakistan have lost the series 0-2 against Australia, PAK vs AUS 3rd Test holds significant importance as World Test Championship (WTC) points are at stake.

Surprisingly, premier Pakistan pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi has been left out from Pakistan's playing XI for PAK vs AUS 3rd Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

Pakistan team management's decision to exclude star left-arm pacer Shaheen Afridi from Pakistan's playing 11 for PAK vs AUS 3rd Test is a strategic move.

Keeping in mind the workload management, PCB considered to rest Shaheen Afridi, keep him fit for the upcoming Pakistan's five-match T20I series in New Zealand.

Shaheen Afridi has bowled most overs in world cricket in recent times. He is our main player. We'll make sure we look after Shaheen Afridi really well, said Pakistan captain Shah Masood in PAK vs AUS 3rd Test pre-match press conference.

Shaheen Afridi was recently appointed as the captain of the Pakistan T20I team. PAK vs NZ T20I series will be Shaheen's inaugural assignment in this leadership role.