If Shakib can come back, so can Amir and Sharjeel: Chief Selector

Pakistan’s newly-appointed chief selector, Haroon Rashid, has left the selection door open for the potential return of retired pacer Mohammad Amir and opener Sharjeel Khan.

While talking to media at an event in Karachi, Haroon said that Amir will have to take his retirement back, in order to be considered for selection.

“Amir is an excellent pacer. But the ball is in his court, not ours. If Amir wants to serve Pakistan cricket, then our doors are open for him. He will have to take his retirement back first, so we know, which players are available,” said Haroon.

“Similarly, Imad Wasim and Sharjeel Khan will also have to follow the fitness standards set and perform in domestic and PSL to make a comeback,” he added.

Haroon also clarified that there is no restriction imposed on the selection of Sharjeel and Amir.

“If Shakib Al Hasan and Marlon Samuels can make a comeback after their bans, so our players, who have served their time, can also make a comeback,” he clarified.

Chief selector also termed upcoming PSL 8 an important event for players to showcase their talent and knock on the selection door for national team.

“I will keep an eye on those players who perform during the PSL. It is an excellent opportunity for players to perform and make a place for themselves in the national team,” he said.

“We are looking to form a pool of 25-30 players, so that our bench will be as strong as our playing XI ahead of the 2023 World Cup,” he added.