Inzamam explains rationale behind keeping Abrar Ahmed, Zaman Khan in reserves

Pakistan announced their 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC Men's ODI World Cup 2023 scheduled in India on Wednesday.

Chief Selector Inzamam-ul-Haq shed light on the rationale behind keeping Abrar Ahmed and Zaman Khan in the reserves for the national cricket team.

Emphasizing the importance of continuity, Inzamam stressed that the decision was aimed at maintaining stability within the squad while also acknowledging the skills and potential of the current spinners in the lineup.

“We have kept Abrar [Ahmed] in the reserves, in case there is any need. I did not want to make too many changes. The three spinners [Shadab Khan, Usama Mir and Mohammad Nawaz] have been with the team and are good players. They need to work harder to be effective in the middle overs, as it is very important for the spinners to play their role in the middle overs," Inzamam said.

He further explained the absence of Hassan Ali during the 2023 Asia Cup which led to Zaman being initially chosen. Inzamam acknowledged Zaman's skills particularly in the death overs, but highlighted the necessity of experience in big events like World Cup.

“Hassan Ali was injured during the Asia Cup. He was my first choice back then, but he was not cleared and that is why we went with Zaman Khan. Zaman is with the team in reserves as he is a good bowler especially in the death. But in an event of this kind, we need someone who has experience," he concluded.