Nine non-centrally contracted players to be called up for England tour camp

Pakistan’s men’s national team selectors have begun the initial process of meetings to finalise the squad that will tour England in the upcoming series. A final decision on the matter is expected after Eid holidays.

The initial camp will include all 21 players who have received a central contract for the year 2020-21. Players such as batsman Fawad Alam, who have been part of recent squads but failed to make their way in the central contracts, are also expected to be called for the camp.

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Many players such as Mohammad Musa, Amad Butt, Khushdil Shah, and Usman Qadir are being discussed for the initial camp. The names of veteran players such as Mohammad Amir, Wahab Riaz, Shoaib Malik and Mohammad Hafeez are also expected to be discussed in the selection committee meeting.

A squad of 30 players is expected to be named for the camp out of which 25 are expected to be sent for the tour. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has already briefed the players regarding their plans. The training plans for the players are expected to be drafted in June. Many options are being considered for training.

The players will train in groups in the initial phase. The National Cricket Academy is being made safe for this purpose.

The postponement of the Twenty20 (T20) World Cup could weaken the cases of veteran all-rounders Shoaib Malik and Mohammad Hafeez. Fast-bowlers Mohammad Amir and Wahab Riaz were not part of the Pakistan squad in the series against Bangladesh; however, Amir could likely receive a call for the initial camp.