NEWS
Follow UsPakistan have made three changes to their T20 World Cup 2021, from the one that was announced on September 4.
Former skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed, and top-order batsman Haider Ali come into the side Azam Khan and Mohammad Hasnain respectively, while Fakhar Zaman, who was a reserve has swapped places with Khushdil Shah, who was originally named in the main 15-member squad.
Pakistan are still undecided on the inclusion of Sohaib Maqsood, who had to undergo MRI scans on his lower back after an injury he sustained during a National T20 match. Pakistan chief selector Mohammad Wasim said that the changes were brought in keeping in mind the performance in the National T20 competition.
Three changes in Pakistan squad for ICC Men's T20 World Cup
— PCB Media (@TheRealPCBMedia) October 8, 2021
More details ➡️ https://t.co/MDsTxzTZRW#HarHaalMainCricket | #T20WorldCup
“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," Wasim said.
“The three in-form players bring with them a wealth of experience and talent and provide further stability, balance and strength to the side."
“It must be tough for Azam, Khushdil and Hasnain for missing out but they still have a lot to offer in their careers. They are in our future plans as a lot of cricket has to be played post the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021 and in the lead up to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia."
“I am pleased with the intensity and high quality of cricket that we have witnessed in the National T20. It has not only provided the players excellent match practice in the lead up to the UAE competition, but it has also given us the opportunity to closely monitor the player progress and then make decisions that are in the best interest of the side for what will be a cut-throat tournament,” he added.
Pakistan will kick start their T20 World Cup 2021 campaign against arch-rivals India in Dubai on October 24.
Pakistan squad: Babar Azam (c), Shadab Khan (vc), Asif Ali, Fakhar Zaman, Haider Ali, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Hafeez, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sohaib Maqsood.
Traveling reserves: Khushdil Shah, Shahnawaz Dahani, Usman Qadir.