Selection problems for PCB after Afridi opts out of SA Test series

Lahore, Sep 27 (UNI) The Pakistan national selectors have a tough job in their hand after dashing all-rounder and their best player in T20 World Cup Shahid Afridi requested the PCB not to consider him for the upcoming Test series against South Africa in home turf.

The Dawn quoted sources s saying that Afridi, who was adjudged the 'Player of the Tournament' for his bowling exploits in the just-concluded World Cup, was not keen on playing the series during the month of Ramzan since he had experienced some physical disorder recently in South Africa due to fasting.

The 27-year-old all-rounder's request to keep him out of selection has compounded some serious problems for Salahuddin Ahmad-led selection panel as uncertainity looms large over 'run machine' Mohammad Yousuf and speedster Shoaib Akhtar's selection due to contrasting reasons.

Yousuf was doubtful as he had joined the rebel Indian Cricket League (ICL), while Akhtar might miss the series due to disciplinary reasons after a 'bat-hitting' spat with fellow pacer Mohammad Asif during the team's practice session at the start of the Twenty20 World Cup in Johannesburg.

However, when questioned, chief selector Salahuddin neither denied or admitted that Afridi had made such a request.

The first match of the two-Test series will be played at Karachi from October 1.

UNI