Pakistan opening batter Abdullah Shafique is facing intense criticism after a series of poor performances with the bat.
Shafique registered his third consecutive duck in ODI cricket during the ongoing South Africa ODI series, marking a new low in his career.
This unfortunate achievement has placed him among the few Pakistan cricketers to record three consecutive ducks in ODIs, a list that includes notable names like Shoaib Mohammad, Shadab Kabir, Mohammad Wasim, Shoaib Malik, and Salman Butt.
As Shafique struggles to find form, fans have taken to social media to express their discontent with many demanding the return of Fakhar Zaman to the squad.
"I still don't understand the reason for Fakhar's exclusion," one fan questioned.
Another fan voiced their frustration, stating, "He had potential but has lost the golden opportunity. Now he needs a long rest. Fakhar Zaman deserved it, and now the case for Fakhar's inclusion in the team is stronger."
Several fans have echoed this view, calling for Fakhar to replace Shafique in the starting lineup.
"Bring back Fakhar in place of him," one fan demanded, while others referred to the concept of "Qudrat ka nizam," reflecting their belief that Fakhar's return to the team is part of a natural order.
"Fakhar Zaman is a hundred times better than him. He [Abdullah Shafique] is only Test material," one fan posted.
In addition to his recent ducks, the 25-year-old has set another unwanted record in 2024, surpassing Imran Nazir and Mohammad Hafeez for the most international ducks in a calendar year.
With seven ducks so far in 2024, Shafique has overtaken Nazir (6 ducks in 32 innings in 2000) and Hafeez (6 ducks in 43 innings in 2012). Notably, he achieved this feat in just 21 innings this year.
- Abdullah Shafique