The PCB has announced the return of Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Naseem Shah for the ODI and T20I series against Australia, while Mohammad Rizwan is being considered for captain. However, key players like Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq have been omitted from the squads. The ODI series begins on November 4, marking Pakistan’s return to international one-day cricket after the World Cup.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced the return of notable players Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Naseem Shah for the upcoming ODI and T20I series against Australia next month. These players, who were previously excluded from Pakistan’s recent Tests against England, have been included in both squads for the white-ball formats. However, they will not participate in the ODI or T20I series in Zimbabwe that follows. While no captain has been named in the announcement, it is expected that chairman Mohsin Naqvi will reveal the captain during a press conference later today. Mohammad Rizwan is seen as a leading candidate for captaincy in both formats and has been rested for the T20Is against Zimbabwe. Salman Ali Agha is another potential choice, as he has been included in all four squads for the tours. Notably, Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq, who missed out on central contracts, have not been selected for any of the squads. In contrast, Mohammad Hasnain, who did not receive a central contract but performed exceptionally in the Champions One-Day Cup, has been awarded places in all four squads. Shadab Khan has been dropped, with Sufiyan Muqeem being added as a left-arm wristspinner for both T20I squads. Additionally, Qasim Akram will travel to Zimbabwe for the T20Is. There is also a shift in the wicketkeeping positions, as Mohammad Haris did not make the cut, allowing Haseebullah Khan, who participated in a previous T20I match in New Zealand, to be included in all four squads. The ODI series against Australia is scheduled to commence on November 4, marking Pakistan’s first ODI venture since the World Cup held in India the previous year. This series sets the stage for a busy schedule leading up to the Champions Trophy in February, an ICC event being hosted by Pakistan for the first time since the 1996 World Cup. Following the series against Australia, Pakistan will engage in both formats against Zimbabwe and will then host a series against South Africa, culminating in a tri-series with New Zealand and South Africa shortly before the Champions Trophy begins.
The announcement of the squads by the Pakistan Cricket Board comes at a critical juncture, as it signals the team’s preparation for major upcoming tournaments. The inclusion of key players and prospective leadership changes is crucial as they aim to perform well in international matches following their recent outings. The series against Australia marks not only a competitive challenge for the players but also serves as a vital opportunity to adapt and showcase talent ahead of the Champions Trophy, further solidifying Pakistan’s standing in cricket’s competitive landscape.
In conclusion, the PCB’s announcement reflects a strategic move to reintegrate pivotal players into the national team while also exploring new leadership dynamics. With significant matches against Australia and Zimbabwe on the horizon, the team is positioned to leverage its strengths and aim for commendable performances in preparation for upcoming international events.
Original Source: www.espncricinfo.com
