May 2nd 2024.
In a press conference held by the Pakistani selectors, it was announced that leg-spinner Usama Mir would not be included in the T20 series in Ireland and England. However, fast bowler Haris Rauf has been recalled for the upcoming matches.
The selectors, consisting of Muhammad Yousuf, Abdul Razzaq, and Wahab Riaz, revealed that the World Cup squad will be selected based on the performances in the matches against Ireland and England. The series in Ireland is set to begin on May 10th, followed by four games in England starting on May 22nd.
Wahab addressed concerns about the fitness of some players, including Muhammad Rizwan, Azam Khan, and Irfan Khan Niazi. He assured that there has been improvement in their fitness and they are confident that they will be able to play in the upcoming matches.
When asked about the decision to recall Hasan Ali for the tour, Wahab explained that he is a backup for Haris and if the latter is fit and performs well, he will be the first choice. However, if Haris is unable to make a comeback, Hasan Ali will step in.
It was revealed that Haris had suffered an injury during the initial stages of the Pakistan Super League in February and has not played since then. Razzaq also mentioned that leg-spinner Usama has been dropped from the squad as Pakistan already has Shadab Khan and Abrar Ahmed as spin options.
Addressing the recent 2-2 result in the T20 series against New Zealand, Yousuf stated that it was not a bad performance, considering the absence of some key players from the New Zealand team. He also highlighted that the selectors have been implementing a rotation policy and trying out new players in the series.
Yousuf also emphasized the need for players to be more innovative in their approach and play their shots fearlessly. He acknowledged that some players may have struggled in this aspect during the series.
The selectors also spoke about their discussions with the new head coach Gary Kirsten, and their shared goal of creating a positive and secure environment for the players to perform their best.
Wahab stated that the final decision on the playing eleven will be left to the captain, and the selectors will not interfere in that area.
The selectors also addressed concerns about Babar Azam's ability as a captain, stating that he may not have been a born leader, but there has been improvement in his leadership during the New Zealand series. They expressed their confidence in his captaincy skills and their intention to work closely with him.
The squad for the upcoming matches was also announced, which includes players like Babar Azam, Muhammad Rizwan, Azam Khan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi. The selectors also added Agha Ali Salman to the squad.
Overall, the selectors are focused on creating a positive and secure environment for the players to perform their best, and they are hopeful for a successful campaign in the upcoming matches.
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