Ahmed Shehzad reveals his all-time Pakistan XI; there is no place for Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi

Ahmed Shehzadformer cricketer, recently revealed his final Pakistan XI during a local channel programme, focusing on legends from past generations as the current players failed to find a place in Shehzad’s list.

Pakistan’s opening duo

Shehzad chose Saeed Anwar again Majid Khan as his opening couple. He praised Anwar’s all-round versatility and hailed Majid’s stylish batting and many records of his era.

“Saeed Anwar was a player loved by the whole world who could dominate in any position on the field. I have watched many videos of Majid Khan, and his batting style was great with many records of his era,” Shehzad was quoted as saying by Pakistan Today.

The Middle-Order Maestros

In the middle order, Shehzad is included Zaheer Abbasknown for his brilliant cover driving and dominance over the bowlers. Younis Khanrecognized for his hard work and impressive stats, Shehzad was a must-have. Javed MiandadShehzad’s childhood hero, earned his place due to his undeniable influence. Shahid AfridiHis dual ability to smash sixes and bow spin made him a challenging but worthy pick. Moin Khan he was selected as the wicket keeper for his good performance behind the stumps.

“He [Zaheer Abbas] it was pleasing to the eye, the cover drive was good and used to dominate the bowlers. Younis Khan was a hardworking player with excellent stats. Having him on either side is the icing on the cake. I know I put him below but how can I miss Javed Miandad? I grew up watching him play, I had to practice with him somewhere in my team. Shahid Afridi hits a six and bowls spin. It was a tough call but at the wicketkeeper’s position, Moin Khan used to take the ball well with his gloves,” the 32-year-old added.

ALSO READ: Wasim Akram names his choice to captain Pakistan after their exit from the 2024 T20 World Cup

Power of Bowling

Shehzad’s bowling list is included Saqlain Mushtaqhailed as the ‘Doosra’ legend, for his match-winning performances and impressive statistics. Wasim Akrama legend in cricket, he was automatically chosen because of his famous achievements. Mohammad Zahidknown for his pace and skill, he added depth to the pace attack alongside Shoaib Akhtar, one of the fastest bowlers in the history of cricket.

“Saqlain has won games for us and has good statistics. It is not possible if someone plays in his childhood and does not follow Wasim Akram and his achievements. Zahid played very little cricket and I remember when Brian Lara said, he is the fastest I have ever played with,” Shehzad concluded.

There is no place for Babar Azam

Shehzad’s decision to leave out the current captain Babar Azam from his last Pakistan XI and other high-class plates like Shaheen Afridi shows his doubts about the abilities of the current crop, especially when you consider Babar’s status as one of the modern Pakistani cricketers known for his consistent scoring and leadership qualities.

However, Pakistan suffered a humiliating defeat in the tournament T20 World Cup 2024, from the group stage. Throughout the tournament, Shehzad’s frustration at being captained by Babar has become increasingly apparent. Many media reports have pointed to the rift between Shehzad and captain Babar, with whom he used to share the field in team cricket.

ALSO READ: Who is Einstein who made Babar Azam captain?’ : Shoaib Akhtar sacks Pakistan captain after poor performance in 2024 T20 World Cup