Pakistan’s interim red-ball head coach Azhar Mahmood has responded to criticism over the inclusion of Asif Afridi, saying he earned his place through domestic performance and that “age is just a number.”
Speaking to the media in Lahore, Azhar Mahmood said: “Asif Afridi hasn’t joined the camp just to bowl in the nets — he is part of the squad. Under concussion protocols, we needed a bowler of his type. Even South Africa have brought a senior spinner who is 38 years old.”
He noted that during the West Indies series, pitches heavily favored spin, making batting difficult. “We understand South Africa’s strengths,” he added.
The coach said Pakistan’s plan is to take 20 wickets against the World Test Champions, though conditions will differ from those in England and the West Indies. “The pitches here will offer gradual spin,” he remarked.
Azhar Mahmood expressed confidence in his team’s form, saying, “All our players have been active, which is an advantage. We’ll play six home Tests this cycle, and if we execute our plans well, our performance in the Test Championship will be strong.”
He confirmed that Mohammad Rizwan remains the first-choice wicketkeeper, with Rohail Nazir as the backup.
“We are fully prepared for the series,” he said. Regarding the team combination, Azhar Mahmood added:
“We haven’t finalized whether to go with two fast bowlers and two spinners. The final decision will be made on match day — it could be one fast bowler or three spinners.”
