Pakistan cricketer Junaid Khan has expressed his discontent with the involvement of Shaheen Afridi and Shadab Khan in the ongoing Vitality T20 Blast 2023, considering their history of injury concerns. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Khan stated that their participation in the league could potentially jeopardize their fitness ahead of crucial international fixtures, including the upcoming World Cup 2023 in India.

Khan believes it would have been more advantageous if the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had disallowed them from participating in such leagues. He specifically highlighted Shaheen Afridi’s situation, noting that the left-arm pacer, who has recently returned from an injury, has struggled in the two matches he has played so far. Khan emphasized the importance of focusing on Shaheen’s fitness and rest, considering his crucial role as the backbone of the Pakistan team.

Shaheen’s performance in the tournament has been below his usual standards, despite his consistent participation. In his last four matches, he has only managed to secure four wickets with an economy rate of 8.50.

Furthermore, Junaid raised concerns about Shadab Khan, who has also faced fitness issues recently. Shadab’s collision with teammate Nathan McAndrew while attempting a catch during his debut for Sussex highlighted the risks associated with his participation.

Junaid suggested that the PCB should carefully consider these matters, taking into account the fitness status of senior players. He mentioned that while young players from the national side can benefit from participating in leagues like the T20 Blast to gain experience, there should be accountability and consideration for the potential consequences of injuries to key players.

He mentioned players like Usama Mir and Zaman Khan, who are participating in the league to learn and develop their skills, similarly to how he gained valuable experience during his own career. Junaid questioned who would be held responsible if injuries were to occur to players like Shaheen and Shadab during such tournaments.