Shaheen Shah Afridi, Pakistan’s left-arm pacer, has shared his views on the current issue of workload management for fast bowlers. He believes it is less important than in past generations of cricket.
In a recent interview, Afridi mentioned legendary Pakistani bowlers Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis when discussing concerns about his bowling workload in Test cricket. He stated, “If I have bowled the most in the world, look at our legends; there was no workload issue back then.”
Afridi expressed surprise at the recent focus on fast bowlers’ workloads, arguing that mental fitness and adaptability are more important for long-term performance than limiting overs bowled. He said, “I don’t know why workload has become such a big topic. It varies for each player and depends on how they handle different formats. Mental strength is key.”
The 24-year-old emphasized the importance of developing new techniques to handle pressure when a bowler feels their body reacting differently. He encouraged players to maintain a positive mindset and enjoy the game, no matter the format. “You need support from management and loved ones for positive reinforcement. Workload isn’t everything; enjoyment is important,” he added.
Afridi’s bowling workload has drawn attention recently, especially after Pakistan’s white-ball head coach, Gary Kirsten, highlighted concerns about the number of overs Afridi has bowled. Kirsten noted that Afridi has bowled three times more overs than any other fast bowler globally in the last 18 months, raising alarms about the risk of burnout.
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“Fast bowlers face immense pressure to win games. Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah have taken on a heavy workload for Pakistan in all formats,” Kirsten explained. “Shaheen’s overs are alarming; it could wear him down eventually.”
