PAK vs BAN: Pakistan drop Shaheen Afridi for 2nd Test, Abrar Ahmed comes in

The lowdown

* Pakistan has dropped fast bowler Shaheen Afridi for the second Test against Bangladesh. * Abrar Ahmed, a leg-spinner, will replace Afridi in the playing XI. * The match will be played at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka starting Friday.

Why was Afridi dropped?

* Afridi, who is Pakistan's premier fast bowler, has been struggling with form and fitness in recent months. * He missed the first Test against Bangladesh due to a back injury. * In his last Test appearance, against England in December, Afridi took just one wicket in the match and conceded 148 runs.

Who is Abrar Ahmed?

* Ahmed is a 24-year-old leg-spinner who has played four Tests for Pakistan. * He has taken 13 wickets in those matches at an average of 24.69. * Ahmed is known for his sharp turn and variations.

What does this mean for Pakistan?

* The loss of Afridi is a blow to Pakistan's bowling attack. * Ahmed is a talented bowler, but he is still relatively inexperienced at Test level. * Pakistan will need Ahmed to step up and perform if they are to win the second Test and level the series.

What's next?

* The second Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh will start on Friday, December 16. * The match will be played at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka.