PCB consider young talent for T20I series against New Zealand

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is looking to give young talents a chance in the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand, set to take place in March and April.

This decision comes after Pakistan’s early exit from the Champions Trophy, where they were the first team to be eliminated, despite being the host nation.

Sources reveal that standout performers from domestic cricket have been invited to Lahore to meet with PCB officials as part of the selection process for the series. This move aligns with Pakistan's long-term vision for the 2026 T20 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

Former wicketkeeper-batter Rashid Latif has also suggested a list of promising young players who should be considered for the upcoming series. His recommendations include Hassan Nawaz, Ali Raza, Abdul Samad, Akif Javed, and Khuwaja Nafay. Additionally, he believes that all-rounder Shadab Khan is the top choice to captain the T20I squad.

Latif also named several other players who could be included in the squad, such as Muhammad Haris, Sufiyan Muqeem, Arafat Minhas, Irfan Khan Niazi, Zaman Khan, Mohammad Wasim, Abbas Afridi, Jahandad Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Abrar Ahmed, Omair Bin Yousuf, and Khushdil Shah.

The Pakistan team is scheduled to depart for New Zealand on March 12, with the five-match T20I series set to begin on March 16. Along with the T20Is, Pakistan will play three ODIs, with the tour running until April 5.

Reports also suggest that several senior players are considering taking a break from international cricket following their disappointing performances in the Champions Trophy. Key players such as Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, and Babar Azam are reportedly being discussed in selection meetings, with some contemplating stepping back from the tour to avoid the risk of being dropped.