Pakistan skipper Babar Azam has recently revealed that Shaheen Shah Afridi could be rested in the three-game tour for keeping him fresh and injury-free before the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup. Azam further answered a number of questions regarding the team before their tour to the Netherlands.
“There are concerns over Shaheen’s fitness. We are taking him along because the doctor and the physio are travelling with the team, so he can be looked after well. We are thinking from a long-term perspective.”
“There is the Asia Cup and the World Cup as well. We’re looking long-term at his fitness and health. We want him to play a game against the Netherlands if he’s fit and be ready for the Asia Cup,” the Pakistan captain added.
Babar then talked about the decision to drop Hasan Ali, who hasn’t been performing well in the recent few games. The captain also pointed out the upcoming domestic season where Ali could get a chance to get back into the squad.
“Our fast-bowling bench strength is excellent. They’ve now got an opportunity to showcase their skills. This is how you expand your pool. Yes, he’s (Ali) not in form, but it’s not like he has to prove anything. Domestic cricket is coming up. He’ll play that and make a strong comeback hopefully.”
Babar further talked about the ability of his team and how they have matchwinners who could turn games around on their day. He said, “We have eleven trump cards. Each of them can be a matchwinner on their day. I have faith in every one of them, whether batters or bowlers.
Pakistan Squad for Netherlands tour:
Babar Azam (c), Shadab Khan (vc), Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Imam ul Haq, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Naseem Shah, Salman Agha, Shaheen Afridi, Shahnawaz Dahani, Zahid Mehmood
Fixtures:
16 August Netherlands vs Pakistan, 1st ODI, Hazelaarweg, Rotterdam
18 August Netherlands vs Pakistan, 2nd ODI, Hazelaarweg, Rotterdam
21 August Netherlands vs Pakistan, 3rd ODI, Hazelaarweg, Rotterdam