Playing for Pakistan has become too easy: Shahid Afridi

Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi feels that playing for the national cricket team has become way too easy. He believes the players should only be selected after spending at least a couple of seasons in domestic cricket. Recently, the all-rounder lashed out at the selection policy adopted for the national cricket team for red and white-ball formats. He was particularly critical of the way players were changed and debuted in the Pakistan limited-overs squads.

Players need at least exposure of two to three years before getting a place in the national team: Shahid Afridi

Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi recalled his time in the national team. He pointed out how difficult it used to be to get a place in the national cricket team. However, nowadays, players only have to impress in a handful of matches to get the selectors' nod. Afridi feels that batters and bowlers need at least exposure of two to three years before getting a place in the national team. After playing 2 to 3 years of domestic cricket, the selectors could judge their talent, temperament, and ability to cope with pressure. He also mentioned that the selectors and coaches should not shun players after a few chances if they failed to perform.

Shahid Afridi signed off by stating that if you give a chance to a player and he doesn't perform, he should be sent back into domestic cricket. He further added that players must know the value of international cricket. Afridi also feels self-belief is one of the crucial attributes for any player. It determines how long a player will eventually end up playing.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan national team led by Babar Azam has already reached the United Kingdom. The visitors are getting match-ready for their forthcoming series. The England cricket team is scheduled to play three one-day internationals and as many T20I matches against Pakistan, starting July 8. Post England tour, they will travel to the Caribbean for five T20Is and two Test matches against the West Indies.

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