Pakistan's white-ball coach, Gary Kirsten, has voiced concerns about the heavy workload being placed on fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi, as Pakistan faces a packed schedule, including upcoming Test series and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Kirsten highlighted that Afridi has bowled significantly more overs than any other pacer in the world over the past 18 months, raising alarms about potential burnout.

Pakistan is set to host England and the West Indies in Test matches, followed by a tour of South Africa. They will also play limited-overs series against Zimbabwe and Australia, along with a tri-series involving New Zealand and South Africa at home. With such a demanding calendar ahead, Kirsten’s concerns come at a crucial time.

Afridi, known for his blistering pace and ability to swing the ball both ways, has been a key figure for Pakistan since his debut. His contributions have been vital across all formats, but the intensity of his playing schedule is beginning to show its toll.

Speaking about the issue, Kirsten commented, “Fast bowlers are always under immense pressure to deliver and win games. When we look at our key resources, Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah have carried the bulk of the workload for Pakistan across all formats. Shaheen has bowled three times more overs than any other fast bowler in the world over the last 18 months. That's alarming—you’re bound to wear him down eventually."

However, some of Kirsten’s statistics have been challenged. While Shaheen has certainly bowled the most overs for Pakistan’s fast bowlers, his workload is slightly behind that of Australia’s Pat Cummins, who has also been heavily involved in both Test and ODI cricket.