During the last decade, it has become a regular practice to restrict certain players to ODIs and Tests. As a big cricket fan I disagree with this practice, particularly in certain circumstances. I will present two examples to support my case.
- Shahid Khan Afridi
Afridi was declared as an ODI specialist, and he was not considered as a regular Test player in our squad. During the Test series in India, where most of our players (openers in particular) were failing to perform their roles, Inzy went to put Afridi. It was definitely a bet but Afridi proved it right and helped Pakistan win the match and level the series. Afridi was a regular player in our Test squad in WI. Interestingly, the first Test match in this series was saved by Pakistan’s Keeper (a young player) and Abdul Razaq (another ODI expert.) - Younis Khan
Younis Khan, was considered a Test player during some time, he was never given a chance in our ODI team. When the chance was there, he proved to be a good player and after his recent comeback, he is scoring in ODIs at the strike rate of about 90%.
Australia is facing a situation that is not much more different than what Pakistan faced. Their openers are failing to provide them a GOOD start in Tests, plus many of their key players are failing to perform on a regular basis. The inclusion of ODI expert all-rounder Andrew Symonds (who delivered his best in ODIs) may help them formulate a better team.