Naseem Shah Selection Controversy Ignites Pakistan Cricket Debate

Former Pakistan Test pacer Tanvir Ahmed sparked a heated discussion by questioning the selection of fast bowler Naseem Shah in the national squad for the T20I series against Bangladesh, held in Pakistan. In an interview with a local sports platform, Tanvir criticized Naseem’s inclusion despite a lackluster performance in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10, where he took only nine wickets in 10 matches at an economy rate of 9.30. Tanvir suggested favoritism linked to Naseem’s association with Islamabad United, raising concerns about merit-based selection. This controversy has fueled debates among fans and analysts about Pakistan’s team selection process.

Tanvir Ahmed Criticism

Tanvir Ahmed, a former Pakistan pacer, expressed frustration over Naseem Shah’s selection for the Bangladesh T20I series, where the 22-year-old did not play a single match. “If you picked Naseem Shah for the Bangladesh series and didn’t play him, then why was he picked?” Tanvir questioned, pointing to Naseem’s poor PSL 10 performance, fitness issues, and lack of effort. He claimed Naseem’s inclusion lacked merit, especially when compared to in-form bowlers like Mir Hamza and Mohammad Abbas Afridi, who were overlooked.

Allegations of Favoritism

Tanvir hinted at potential favoritism, suggesting Naseem’s ties to Islamabad United, a prominent PSL franchise, may have influenced selectors. “That’s why people are talking — saying it’s Islamabad United’s influence,” he said, noting that the head coach and other selected players are also linked to the franchise. This claim has stirred speculation, with posts on X, such as one from @daily_khabrain, amplifying the controversy. However, no official evidence supports these allegations.

Naseem Shah’s PSL 10 Performance

Naseem Shah’s PSL 10 campaign with Islamabad United was underwhelming, with nine wickets in 10 matches at a high economy rate of 9.30. His fitness and injury concerns, highlighted by Tanvir, have been a recurring issue, notably after a shoulder injury sidelined him for the 2023 World Cup. Despite these challenges, Naseem’s selection for the Bangladesh series has raised questions about the criteria used by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Overlooked Performers

Tanvir emphasized that bowlers like Mir Hamza, who performed strongly in PSL 10, and Mohammad Abbas Afridi, who was only included after Mohammad Wasim Jr.’s injury, deserved priority. “On merit, Naseem Shah doesn’t deserve to be in the team right now,” Tanvir asserted. Mir Hamza’s consistent domestic performances and Abbas Afridi’s T20 prowess have fueled arguments that the PCB overlooked form in favor of reputation.

Naseem Shah Career Highlights

Naseem Shah, born February 15, 2003, in Lower Dir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, is renowned for his pace and swing. At 16, he debuted in Test cricket against Australia in 2019, becoming the ninth-youngest Test debutant. He holds records as the youngest pacer to take a Test five-wicket haul (against Sri Lanka, 2019) and a Test hat-trick (against Bangladesh, 2020). Despite injuries, Naseem has 18 wickets in 13 T20Is and was pivotal in Pakistan’s 2025 ICC Champions Trophy campaign, dismissing key batsmen like Kane Williamson.

Pakistan  Selection Challenges

Pakistan’s cricket team has faced scrutiny over selection processes for years. Injuries to key pacers like Naseem Shah and Shaheen Afridi have disrupted team plans, as seen in the 2023 World Cup when Naseem’s shoulder injury led to his exclusion. The PCB’s decision to rest Naseem, Babar Azam, and Shaheen for Tests against England in October 2024 also drew criticism for lacking transparency. Tanvir’s comments reflect ongoing concerns about balancing talent, form, and fitness in Pakistan’s competitive fast-bowling pool.

PCB’s Response and Upcoming Series

The PCB has not officially addressed Tanvir’s allegations, but sources indicate Naseem Shah is unlikely to feature in the proposed T20I series against Bangladesh in July 2025 due to ongoing recovery from injuries. Pakistan, led by Salman Ali Agha, is also preparing for a three-match ODI and T20I series against the West Indies in August 2025. The controversy may prompt the PCB to clarify its selection criteria to restore public trust.

Public Sentiment

Posts on X reflect divided opinions. Some, like @TOKSports021, echo Tanvir’s concerns about merit, while others, like @iamAhmadhaseeb, praise Naseem’s resilience, citing Wasim Akram’s endorsement of his potential. Fans remain passionate about Naseem, with searches for “Naseem Shah fastest ball” and “Naseem Shah brother” trending, indicating his enduring popularity despite the controversy.

The controversy over Naseem Shah’s selection, sparked by Tanvir Ahmed’s critique on June 15, 2025, has highlighted issues of merit and favoritism in Pakistan cricket. Despite Naseem’s modest PSL 10 performance and injury concerns, his inclusion in the Bangladesh T20I squad has raised questions, with bowlers like Mir Hamza overlooked. As Pakistan prepares for upcoming series, the PCB faces pressure to ensure transparent selections. What are your thoughts on Naseem Shah’s selection? Share in the comments and stay tuned for updates on Pakistan cricket!

Naseem Shah’s selection for Pakistan’s T20I squad despite a poor PSL 10 performance has sparked controversy, with Tanvir Ahmed questioning merit and alleging favoritism. Explore the debate and Naseem’s career highlights.