Cricket-With Champions Trophy looming, Pakistan rest Afridi for South Africa tests

FILE PHOTO: Cricket - First Test - England v Pakistan - Multan Cricket Stadium, Multan, Pakistan - October 11, 2024 Pakistan's Shaheen Shah Afridi reacts after being bowled and caught by England's Jack Leach REUTERS/Akhtar Soomro/File Photo

LAHORE, Pakistan (Reuters) - Speedster Shaheen Afridi has been left out of Pakistan's squad for a two-test series in South Africa in a bid to keep him fresh for the Champions Trophy at home next year, the country's cricket board said on Wednesday.

However, the left-arm quick has been picked for six limited-overs matches in South Africa beginning on Dec. 10, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said in a statement.