Pakistan’s upcoming One-day International (ODI) series against Sri Lanka, marks returns of five players to the national squad.

The list of players include opener Abid Ali, middle-order batsman Iftikhar Ahmed, all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz, wicketkeeper batsman Mohammad Rizwan and left-arm pacer Usman Shinwari.

With this series being an international season-opener for Pakistan, the hosts look to come out all-guns blazing to secure the winning momentum before they play Australia Down Under.

Abid is particularly excited to take the field in front of the home crowd.

“I have worked hard on my skills and fitness at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore during the off-season,” said Abid. “I am excited that I have been drafted in the squad for a home series, which will be played in Pakistan.”

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Rizwan wants to follow in Men in Green’s skipper Sarfaraz footsteps and cement his place in the national side.

“I have been with the national side for the past three years. I always look to leave a mark whenever I get an opportunity, whether it is in international or domestic events,” said Rizwan. “I have put up performances and have been learning a lot from Sarfaraz Ahmed.”

Shinwari is also looking to make the most of another opportunity to represent Pakistan.

“I will look to bring out my best against Sri Lanka and play the same way as I did in our last series against them,” said Shinwari. “I am thankful to Allah that I am making a comeback in a home series. I have worked on my skills every single day in the past three-four months for this opportunity.”

The first ODI between the Men in Green and Sri Lanka will take place in Karachi on September 27, Friday.