Why did Shaheen Afridi make himself unavailable for South Africa Tests?

Pakistan’s left-arm paceman Shaheen Shah Afridi wants to be fully fit for next year’s Champions Trophy and that’s why he made himself unavailable for the two-match Test series in South Africa, starting on December 26 (Thursday). 

According to the Press Trust of India, the 24-year-old, who was dropped for the final two home Tests against England earlier this year, requested the management and selectors not to consider him for the Test series against the Proteas.

"The truth is Shaheen himself requested he not be considered for Test matches until the Champions Trophy is over," a source said as quoted by PTI.

Afridi has also been offered a good deal to feature in the Bangladesh Premier League (December 30 - February 7), and the seamer has informed the management that he will take care of his fitness.

"He assured the management and board the money was very good and he would look after his fitness and workload during the event so he should be permitted to play in the league," the source added.

Afridi will be available for the tri-series in February, which will also involve South Africa and New Zealand, followed by the Champions Trophy.

"Shaheen said he would be fully fit in time for the tri-series ODIs against New Zealand and South Africa, followed by the Champions Trophy at home. Shaheen told Aaqib he can be selected for tests once the Champions Trophy is completed," the source added.