Veteran pacer was not part of Pakistan’s 35-member squad
11 November, 2020
PHOTO: AFP/PCB
Pakistan’s veteran pacer Mohammad Amir took a tacit dig at the current head coach and former chief selector Misbahul Haq after being snubbed from the 35-man squad that was announced for the upcoming tour of New Zealand.
Replying to a tweet that criticised the exclusion, the fast-bowler simply wrote that it was a question only Misbah could answer.
“Misbah saab hi bata sakte hain [only Misbah ‘sir’ can tell you why] but good luck for team green,” Amir tweeted.
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It must be noted that Amir, alongside veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik, was also not part of Pakistan’s squad for the recently concluded limited-overs home series against Zimbabwe.
Speaking at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Misbah had said that the selectors wanted to invest in young players who are available for all three formats.
The fast-bowler also replied on a video of Misbah explaining the exclusions by claiming that he trusted Allah and not individuals.
“Who Allah kar sakta hai banda ni or mje Allah pe trust logon pe ni [Allah can do that, not people and I have complete trust in Allah, but not in people],” he said.
Meanwhile, Babar Azam has been confirmed Pakistan captain in all formats. His vice-captain in Tests will be Mohammad Rizwan, while Shadab will be the vice-captain.
The players, along with 20-member players support personnel, will depart for Lincoln on November 23, where they will spend the mandatory 14-day quarantine period.
Pakistan v New Zealand (in bracket are start times in Pakistan Standard Times):
Dec 18 – 1st T20I, Eden Park, Auckland (1200 PST)
Dec 20 – 2nd T20I, Seddon Park, Hamilton (1200 PST)
Dec 22 – 3rd T20I, McLean Park, Napier (1200 PST)
Dec 26-30 – 1st Test, Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui (0400 PST)
Jan 3-7 – 2nd Test, Hagley Oval, Christchurch (0400 PST)
Schedule of Shaheens vs New Zealand A will be announced as soon as it is confirmed by the NZC.
