Pakistan's T20 World Cup journey kicks off in Dallas with a match against co-host USA on June 6
23 May, 2024
PHOTO: AFP
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to reveal the 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024 tomorrow after a delay.
The rain in Leeds, which led to the abandonment of the first match between Pakistan and England, has also caused a delay in finalizing the squad. Completion of this match could have potentially made the decision-making process easier.
Head coach Gary Kirsten, who recently joined the team, is meticulously evaluating player performances and consulting with other stakeholders to ensure a balanced and competitive squad.
The ICC's deadline for squad submissions is May 24, leaving the PCB with a crucial window to make the final selections. Until that date, changes can only be made on medical grounds, subject to approval by the technical committee.
According to insiders, players like Hasan Ali, Salman Ali Agha, and Mohammad Irfan are not part of the squad.
The selectors' strategy focuses on blending young talents like Abrar Ahmed and Saim Ayub with experienced campaigners such as Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim.
Babar Azam will lead the team as captain, with Mohammad Rizwan playing a key role as wicketkeeper-batsman.
The proposed squad, as reported by reliable sources, is as follows:
Babar Azam (Captain), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan.
Pakistan's T20 World Cup journey kicks off in Dallas with a match against co-host USA on June 6, followed by games against India on June 9 and Canada on June 12 in New York. Their final group stage match is against Ireland on June 16 in Florida.
