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PCB Announces Squad for T20I Series Against New Zealand, Includes New Faces and Returning Players
Exciting news for cricket fans! PCB unveils squad for T20I series against New Zealand, featuring new talents and returning stars.
ND
by News Desk
2024-04-09
PCB Announces Squad for T20I Series Against New Zealand, Includes New Faces and Returning Players

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has revealed the 17-member squad for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand, set to take place from April 18 to April 27 in Rawalpindi and Lahore.

In a press release, the PCB announced the inclusion of uncapped middle-order batsman Muhammad Irfan Khan and opener Usman Khan, who impressed selectors with their performances in the recent edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

Additionally, wrist spinner Abrar Ahmed, all-rounder Imad Wasim, and fast bowler Mohammad Amir have also been named in the squad. Both Imad and Amir, who recently rescinded their retirements from international cricket, were part of the training camp organized by the army in Kakul.

Hard-hitting batter Usman Khan, despite being banned from Emirati cricket for five years earlier this month, has also been included in the squad. Babar Azam will lead the team as the T20I captain, replacing Shaheen Shah Afridi.

Speaking about the squad selection, PCB selection committee member Wahab Riaz highlighted the decision to include Imad and Amir, citing their availability for selection and the absence of Haris Rauf due to injury and Mohammad Nawaz's current form.

Meanwhile, Mohammad Yousuf, another selection committee member and the team's batting coach, congratulated Irfan and Usman on their selection, expressing optimism about their potential to become key impact players.

Both Irfan and Usman expressed their gratitude and determination to perform well for the team. Irfan stated that he was deeply honored to be selected and committed to proving himself worthy of the selectors' and captain's trust. Usman emphasized the effort and dedication he has put into his game and pledged to maintain high standards.

The selection committee also addressed questions regarding the inclusion of Azam Khan and Babar Azam's captaincy. Bilal Afzal highlighted Azam's performance statistics and the strategies devised by the coach and captain, expressing confidence in Azam's abilities.

Regarding Babar's captaincy, Wahab clarified that Babar was the white-ball captain, with ongoing discussions about selecting the vice-captain.

The squad includes: Babar Azam (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohmmad Amir, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usama Mir, Usman Khan, and Zaman Khan.
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cricket

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