Pakistan’s Chief Selector Mohammad Wasim, in a press conference on Friday, explained the reasoning behind the comeback of tainted opener Sharjeel Khan for the upcoming tours of South Africa and Zimbabwe.

The 42-year-old claimed that good performances in domestic cricket along with overall betterment of fitness paved his way into Pakistan’s T20I squad.

“Sharjeel Khan has been given a chance to come back to the side on the basis of good performances in domestic cricket along with an overall betterment in fitness. The team needs a power-hitter and Sharjeel’s presence will provide the chance for a better combination.  After the tours of South Africa and Zimbabwe, we will be in a position to give a final look to our eventual World Cup squad,” Wasim said.

The Chief Selector revealed that he had maintained discussions with veteran fast-bowler Wahab Riaz and veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik, who were not picked for any squad.

“Shahnawaz Dhani has been added in the Test squad in order to strengthen the fast-bowling department. Wahab Riaz’s level of performances are not the same as the past. We have also told Shoaib Malik what he needs to do in order to come back into the side,” he said.

Wasim emphasised that fast-bowler Mohammad Amir had taken a retirement from international cricket which is why he was not discussed for the tours.

“The players who have been dropped are still a part of our plans. Any player can perform and make their way back into the side. Mohammad Amir took retirement from international cricket. For all other players, the doors are always open. Performance and fitness are the only two ways into the national side,” he said.