Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has suggested that key players Shadab Khan and Shaheen Shah Afridi should be rested for the fifth and final T20I against New Zealand, scheduled to be played in Wellington on Wednesday.

Afridi, in a social media post on X (formerly Twitter), emphasised the need to provide opportunities to bench players, particularly with the series already lost after New Zealand’s emphatic 115-run victory in the fourth match.

“For the final game, the players on the bench should be given a chance – with the series lost, Shadab and Shaheen can be rested and replacements given an opportunity,” Afridi wrote.

Pakistan’s campaign has been marred by poor performances, with both Shadab and Shaheen struggling to make an impact. Shadab, who returned to the squad after the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024, has managed only 30 runs in three innings, averaging just 10, while his bowling returns have been equally underwhelming, with just one wicket in four matches.

Shaheen, Pakistan’s spearhead pacer, has also endured a disappointing series, picking up just two wickets in as many matches at an average of 66.50 and an economy rate of 10.23.

Pakistan suffer heaviest T20I defeat

Pakistan’s 115-run loss to New Zealand at Bay Oval on Sunday marked their biggest defeat in T20I history in terms of runs, surpassing their previous worst loss of 95 runs, also against New Zealand in Wellington in 2016.

Set a daunting 221-run target, Pakistan’s batting line-up collapsed under pressure, managing only 105 runs before being bowled out. New Zealand's dominant display saw Finn Allen smashing a quickfire half-century, while Jacob Duffy’s four-wicket haul ensured a resounding win for the hosts.

This margin of victory is New Zealand’s second-largest in T20Is, behind their 118-run triumph over West Indies in 2018, also at Bay Oval.

Basit Ali tears into Pakistan team

Former cricketer Basit Ali was scathing in his criticism of the national side following the humiliating defeat, questioning the team’s selection and overall approach.

"Kids are not playing against us. If you want to keep this team, do it against Nepal or Ireland. You are wasting time. Just like the domestic T20 tournament is a waste of time and money, this tour is just like that. It is better to play against Bangladesh," Basit said in a video statement.

Ali, who played 19 Tests and 30 ODIs for Pakistan between 1993 and 1996, likened the New Zealand series to the ongoing National T20 Cup, calling both a "waste of time."

Pakistan’s batters struggled against New Zealand’s bowling attack, as Foulkes and Duffy exploited their height to extract extra bounce and movement.

With the series already decided, all eyes will be on Pakistan’s team selection for the final game, as Afridi’s call for changes gains traction.