New Zealand Test series sees new additions to Pakistan team

The Pakistan Cricket Board's interim selection committee, led by Shahid Afridi, is likely to add three players to the men's team for the ongoing Test series against New Zealand. 

According to sources, pacers Ihsanullah and batters Saim Ayub and Haseebullah Khan are likely to be included in the squad as part of the committee's plan to support and reward young, talented, and high-performing players. 

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Previously, all-rounder Arafat Minhas, top-order batter Basit Ali, and right-arm fast bowler Mohammad Zeeshan were also added to the Pakistan team during the first Test against New Zealand, which ended in a draw in Karachi on Friday.

“We are not only looking at present but also have an eye on the future. In this relation, we have added three top-performers from our age-group cricket so that they can spend time with their stars in the national side and learn how to plan and prepare for high pressure matches,” Afridi said previously.

“Although the three players will not be available for selection, this initiative will fast track their progress and provide them better awareness, understanding and knowledge about the rigours and demands of top-grade cricket,” he added.

It is to be noted that the second Test will be played in the National Bank cricket arena from January 02, 2023 to January 06, 2023.