ESPNcricinfo has learnt that it will be done to manage their workloads before the T20 World Cup
ESPNcricinfo has learnt that the decision will be taken to manage their workload, allowing them to take a break from their life in the bio-bubble, with the T20 World Cup later this year the priority.
Pakistan have played more games than any other team besides England since the Covid-19 outbreak, which in turn has meant significantly long periods travelling as part of a bio-secure bubble. Both Rizwan (44) and Babar Azam (40) have played more international games than any player in the world since that start of March. Shaheen Afridi played 37 while Hasan, since his come back early this year, went on to play 20 games across all formats. All four have also played two editions of the PSL, adding further time spent in bio-bubbles.
Pakistan had been looking for a window to rest their overworked players, with concerns mounting over the mental toll bio-secure bubbles were having on athletes.
These four players had been requesting a rest for some time. The series against Afghanistan is part of the ICC World Cup Super League, giving it additional importance, but the PCB was confident about the chances of the squad that will be announced tomorrow.
More to follow…
Umar Farooq is ESPNcricinfo’s Pakistan correspondent
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