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Rediff.com  » Sports » Afridi to skip Tests until World Cup

Afridi to skip Tests until World Cup

April 13, 2006 00:56 IST
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Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi has decided to stop playing Test cricket until after next year's World Cup in the West Indies.

"I have decided that it is better if I stop playing Test cricket until the next World Cup and concentrate on giving my best for the team in the one-dayers" Afridi told Reuters on Wednesday.

"After the World Cup I will decide whether I want to resume my Test career. This decision is based on my feeling that it is not possible for me to adjust and subsequently give 100 percent in both forms of the game."

The 26-year-old, who has played 24 Tests, said the busy international calendar had contributed to his decision.

"The amount of cricket being played these days is too hectic for me and I felt playing both forms was affecting my performances. Doing well in the World Cup and helping my team win is my main priority now," Afridi said.

Afridi, who is known for his flamboyant hitting and leg spin bowling, played in the first Test against Sri Lanka last month.

He has made 4,824 runs and taken 184 wickets in 222 one-day appearances.

Afridi holds the record for the fastest century in one-day internationals, which he made off just 37 balls against Sri Lanka at Nairobi in 1996.

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"I have discussed this and informed my captain Inzamam-ul-Haq about this decision and he has been supportive," Afridi said.

Inzamam said he would respect Afridi's decision.

"I would not like to create any pressure on him to do something he does not want to do at this stage," Inzamam said.

Pakistan will play a minimum of nine Test matches and around 25 one-day internationals before the World Cup starts in March.
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Source: REUTERS
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