Cricket Chief Selector Inzamamul Haq has announced an 18-member Pakistan squad for the ICC World Cup 2023. The announcement includes the inclusion of bowler Hasan Ali and the exclusion of star bowler Naseem Shah, who suffered an injury during the Asia Cup.
Ali was selected as a replacement for Shah, who injured his shoulder in a match against India. Haris Rauf, also injured in the same match, has been included in the squad.
Inzamam addressed the selection of Ali, who has not played international cricket recently, emphasizing that his experience with a new ball played a significant role in his inclusion. He referred to Ali as a “team man” and believes that his presence will boost the team’s energy.
Regarding Shah’s injury, Inzamam stated that the reports received by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) suggested that Shah would remain sidelined even after the World Cup. This is why he could not be selected for the tournament.
Inzamam clarified that there have been no major changes to the team composition. He explained, “The team has been playing with this combination for the last two years, and it would not be appropriate to disrupt the team within three weeks of my appointment.”
The squad for the World Cup includes players such as Babar Azam (captain), Shadab Khan (vice-captain), Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imamul Haq, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Rizwan (wicketkeeper), Mohammad Wasim, Agha Salman, Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Usama Mir.
The reserve squad comprises Mohammad Haris, Abrar Ahmed, and Zaman Khan.
Stay tuned for more updates!