Shahid Afridi sets new record for most wickets in T20I

A large part of the reason is the majority of players outside of the big three can earn more money playing T20 matches around the world than they can playing Test matches. I can understand why players would prefer to maximise their earnings as their playing careers are short lived.

The players do earn a lot of money playing the shorter formats of the game, but then the question about loyalty as to be asked.

We can't on one hand say we understand why they go and play T20 on the other side of the world, but when they refuse a call up to play for their country in a test match, be up in arms and say they're a traitor.

Which players have refused a call up to their respective Test teams? I can't think of any off hand. Typically, the players that are T20 specialists don't have the necessary skills and application to be a Test player or their body can't hold up to the rigours of the longer format which is why they opt for the pay day of T20 cricket. Their is also a third category - players too old to play Test cricket but can make money off name recognition playing the shortest format.