Shaheen Afridi says Pakistan targeting WTC 2025-27 final

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi has said the national side is ready for a demanding stretch of Test cricket and is aiming to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 final.

Speaking ahead of Pakistan’s Test series against Bangladesh in 2025, Afridi said the team was approaching the assignment with a broader long-term objective in mind as it begins what he described as an extended red-ball season.

He said Test cricket remained a major priority for Pakistan and stressed that the squad had prepared thoroughly for the challenges ahead. Afridi said, “We are looking forward to the challenge of the Test series. Tests are very important for us, and this is a long Test season — perhaps for the first time like this. We are fully prepared and ready to give our best.”

Pakistan’s campaign in the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 is still at an early stage, but Afridi said the team’s focus goes beyond one bilateral contest. He said, “We are not only focused on this Test series but also on the World Test Championship. Our target is to reach the final, and for that we must play our best cricket consistently.”

Focus on consistency and conditions

Pakistan are seeking to improve their position in the WTC standings through strong results in both home and away matches. Afridi said adapting to different playing environments would be crucial, particularly in the subcontinent, where spin-friendly surfaces often give host teams an edge.

He said, “Every team is strong in its home conditions, but what matters most is how well you prepare and execute your plans.”

Looking specifically at the Bangladesh series, Afridi said Pakistan had prepared for different kinds of pitches and believed the side was equipped to respond to varying conditions.

He said, “Bangladesh have done well on spin tracks, and teams use home advantage. We have prepared for both spin conditions and green wickets, so we are ready for every challenge.”

Series schedule and squad

The Pakistan-Bangladesh Test series will begin at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium from May 8 to 12. The second Test is scheduled to be played at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium from May 16 to 20.

Pakistan will be captained by Shan Masood for the series. The squad includes a combination of experienced cricketers and emerging players, with several uncapped players also named in the group.

Among the key players in the squad are Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Hasan Ali.

Afridi’s remarks underline Pakistan’s intention to treat the Bangladesh series as part of a wider push in the World Test Championship cycle, with consistency across conditions central to the team’s hopes of reaching the final.