Azam Khan’s physical state and his T20 International performance have drawn criticism from Shahid Afridi, who has questioned Khan’s suitability for the Pakistan team.
Azam had a respectable performance in the 2024 Pakistan Premier League, scoring 226 runs at a strike rate of 171.21. However, his T20I record is not as spectacular, with 88 runs in 12 matches and 11 innings at an average of 11 and a strike rate of 146.
In an interview with a local television station, Afridi emphasized the importance of fitness in cricket and questioned Khan’s ability to keep wicket, especially given the West Indian playing conditions.
“Mainly, fitness is important. Whether you are batting, bowling, or fielding, your body language on the field communicates your level of fitness.
On fitness, you cannot cut corners. In terms of fitness, I would never allow Azam Khan to be anywhere close to the team,” Afridi said.