The absence of Shaheen is a “huge blow” for Pakistan, according to England coach McCullum

ISLAMABAD: According to England head coach Brendon McCullum, the absence of fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi due to injury is a “huge setback” for Pakistan in the next three-match Test series. Following a knee injury received at the Twenty20 World Cup final in Australia earlier this month. The lanky left-arm pacer—leading Pakistan’s wicket-taker in all three formats—was excluded from the series. Additionally, the 22-year-appendix old’s was removed earlier this month.

Interview of England coach McCullum about Shaheen

One day after arriving in Pakistan for their first Test visit since 2005. England held their first practice session at Rawalpindi Stadium on Monday. Thursday is the start of the first Test. McCullum noted that Shaheen had advanced significantly since he first partnered with the fast bowler in the 2016 and 2017 seasons of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). And afterward served as his coach.

I am somewhat familiar with him. In addition to being a great bowler, he has developed into a strong captain for Pakistani cricket. McCullum said during a press conference. It is clear that Shaheen is a huge loss. Pakistan will rely on youthful Naseem Shah, Mohammad Wasim Junior, and Haris Rauf, who have not competed at the Test level, in his place.

McCullum hailed the Bowling attack of Pakistan

However, McCullum hailed Pakistan’s ability to bowl quickly. You can see the talent on their squad sheet, some of it perhaps not yet developed but talent nonetheless. You must accept it and find a method to be well-prepared for what is coming your way by doing your study and planning.

Last year, England was scheduled to travel to Pakistan. But they canceled a week before the trip because New Zealand had canceled its limited-over series on security reasons minutes before the first game. They then rescheduled the trip in two parts after visiting Pakistan two months prior for a Twenty20 series.

The new England coach, McCullum, acknowledged Pakistan would be formidable at home. The well-rounded Pakistan team is really good, according to McCullum, who has led England to six consecutive Test victories.

Both the batting and bowling teams will present a difficult task because they have a mix of youth and experience. We understand that if we want to win, we’ll need to play well.

Multan will host the second Test (December 9–13), while Karachi will host the third (December 17-21).

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