From hat-trick in Champions Cup final to red ball - Shaheen: Red-ball always first

Shaheen Shah Afridi has reaffirmed his commitment to red-ball cricket, calling it his top priority as he prepares to return to first-class action for KRL in the upcoming President's Trophy Grade-I. This marks his first domestic first-class appearance in Pakistan in seven years.

Red-Ball Commitment: Afridi emphasized that red-ball cricket remains his primary focus, stating, "Red-ball cricket is always my first priority. I've always loved it... when you're free, you should play domestic cricket."

Aiming for Test Comeback: After being left out of Pakistan's recent Test tours to the West Indies and England, Afridi is using the domestic circuit to fine-tune his rhythm, line, and length to earn back his spot in the national Test squad. Refining Skills: Drawing on advice from his brother Riaz Afridi, Shaheen noted that spending extended time on the field in longer formats is essential for bowling confidence and execution.

Form & Recent Success: The left-arm seamer enters the tournament following a successful domestic stint, where he finished as the top wicket-taker in the Champions Cup, including a match-winning 7 for 36 in the final.

Upcoming Schedule: Afridi remains Pakistan's ODI captain and is set to lead the national side in a home tri-series against England and Sri Lanka before Pakistan hosts Test series against Sri Lanka and New Zealand later in the season.

Afridi has had success on Pakistan's domestic circuit recently, finishing as the top wicket-taker in the recently concluded Champions Cup, a one-day tournament where he led his team, Pakistan Gold, to silverware. He took 7 for 36 in the final, and remains captain of Pakistan's ODI team, which he will lead in an upcoming home tri-series against England and Sri Lanka. It is followed by two home Test series, against Sri Lanka and New Zealand later in the season.