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In a big update coming in from the Pakistan Cricket camp, the selectors have confirmed the team's squad for the forthcoming T20 World Cup happening across Oman and the United Arab Emirates. From the squad that was announced last month, as many as three changes were made to the entire contingent.
The changes have been accommodated keeping in mind the recent form and the performances of the players. Consequently, Sarfaraz Ahmed and Haider Ali have replaced Azam Khan and Mohammad Hasnain in the Pakistan side respectively. Moreover, Fakhar Zaman, who had earlier been included as a travel reserve, has now been included in the main squad in place of Khushdil Shah.
However, the big name that is still missing from the squad is that of former Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik. The omission is significant since Malik has been in terrific form in the National T20 Cup 2021-22 and is among the top run-getters of the tournament. The right-handed experienced batter has scored 220 runs in 6 innings at an average of 75.00 and a strike rate of 149.
Three in-form players bring with them wealth of experience and talent: Chief selector
Furthermore, an official release by the Pakistan Cricket Board stated that a decision on Sohaib Maqsood’s inclusion in the squad will be made after medical advice. For the unversed, Maqsood had to undergo MRI scans for the lower back after a suspected injury National T20 Cup.
"After reviewing player performances in the highly-competitive National T20 and in consultation with the team management, we have decided to include Haider Ali, Fakhar Zaman and Sarfaraz Ahmed in the squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021," chief selector Muhammad Wasim was quoted in the official release.
"The three in-form players bring with them a wealth of experience and talent, and provide further stability, balance and strength to the side," he added.
Pakistan are all set to begin their T20 World Cup campaign with a clash against arch-rivals against India at the Dubai International Stadium on October 24. The tickets of the much-anticipated fixture were sold out hours after they were made available online for purchase.