Adieu Afridi?

Published December 10, 2012

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As was being rumoured, Shahid Afridi was given the axe from Pakistan’s one-day international (ODI) squad for the tour of India when selectors named the teams on Monday. The former captain’s lack of form in the format was said to be the reason for his exclusion and while he remains a part of the Twenty20 squad, Afridi will have to put in good performances in the shortest format to keep his place.

On the other hand, veteran batsman Younis Khan was recalled for the ODIs on back of his experience in India and as a reliable option in the middle order.

Several young players, three uncapped and several with limited outings were also included in the squads as the selectors indicated their will to experiment and show some faith in the youth.

Another mentionable exclusion was that of veteran all-rounder Abdul Razzaq but given his outburst against T20 captain Mohammad Hafeez, it wasn’t surprising that the Lahore Lions player was kept out of the touring side.

Pakistani cricket fans have been divided on the team selection and while some have backed the excitement of youth over experienced players, other have lamented the exclusion of star all-rounder Afridi.

Do you agree with the team selection for the T20 and ODI squads for the tour of India?

Does Shahid Afridi deserve a place in the ODI squad? If not, will this mark a turning-point in his ODI career?

Will inexperienced players be able to cope with the pressure of playing in a high-pressure series against India?

Who are your picks for star performers for the ODI and T20 matches?

Dawn.com invites its readers to share their opinions and views...

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