Why Shadab Khan is Not Playing Today in PAK vs SL Tri Series Final? Explained

Pakistan are playing against Sri Lanka in the ODI Tri-Series final at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Saturday, October 31, with the hosts aiming to lift the trophy on home soil. Shaheen Shah Afridi is leading Pakistan against Kusal Mendis’ Sri Lanka in the tournament decider.

The two sides come into the final after contrasting performances in the league stage, with Sri Lanka having beaten Pakistan convincingly in their previous meeting. Meanwhile, Pakistan have been dealt with a major blow as their star all-rounder Shadab Khan is missing the match.

Why Shadab Khan is Not Playing Today?

After winning the toss, Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi elected to bowl first. Explaining the change at the toss ahead of the PAK vs SL tri series final, Afridi confirmed, "Shadab isn't well; Faheem is in."

The statement confirmed that Shadab's absence was due to illness. Faheem Ashraf was named as the Shadab Khan replacement for the summit clash, bringing another pace-bowling option and lower-order batting depth into Pakistan's lineup.

Shadab's absence is a significant change for the hosts, considering his value as a bowling all-rounder and his ability to contribute with both bat and ball. He was in excellent form recently, which makes his absence even more heartbreaking. Faheem will now have an opportunity to make an impact in the title decider.