Pakistan announce 15-member squad for first New Zealand T20I

Pakistan have announced their 15-member squad for the first Twenty20 International (T20I) against New Zealand in Auckland on Friday.

All-rounder Shadab Khan will lead the Men in Green in the absence of regular skipper Babar Azam, who was ruled out of the three-match series due to a thumb fracture.

Pacer Musa Khan and leg-spinner Usman Qadir have not been included in the squad but can be called-up if needed.

“Leading Pakistan side is an honour for me,” said Shadab. “We will miss Babar Azam but this provides a good opportunity to youngsters to shine in the series.”

“We are eager to play in front of the crowds once again,” he added.

Squad

Shadab Khan (c), Abdullah Shafique, Faheem Ashraf, Haider Ali, Haris Rauf, Hussain Talat, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Hafeez, Mohammad Hasnain, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Sarfaraz Ahmed (wk), Shaheen Shah Afridi, Wahab Riaz.