PCB likely to announce squads for Australia, Zimbabwe white-ball tours today

The announcement of the Pakistan white-ball squads for the upcoming tours of Australia and Zimbabwe is expected today, following crucial discussions among selectors and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) leadership. The selectors are scheduled to meet with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi to present their proposed player selections.

Mohammad Rizwan has emerged as a strong candidate for the captaincy role. Sources indicate that a formidable squad is being assembled for the three One Day Internationals (ODIs) and three Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) against Australia, featuring star players such as Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Naseem Shah.

However, notable absences are expected, with Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim, and Mohammad Amir, all of whom represented Pakistan in the recent 2024 ICC T20 World Cup, not being considered for selection. Additionally, there are still uncertainties surrounding the inclusion of Fakhar Zaman, while Kamran Ghulan and Mohammad Hasnain may receive their chance to shine.

In a strategic shift, the selection committee has agreed to provide more opportunities to junior players in the upcoming series against Zimbabwe. This decision reflects the committee's commitment to developing young talent within the national setup.

The selection committee, comprising Aaqib Javed, Azhar Ali, Aleem Dar, and Asad Shafiq, has diligently prepared for this crucial meeting. The finalization of the team list is anticipated during the discussions with the board chairman, paving the way for the official squad announcement.

The Pakistani team is scheduled to depart for Melbourne on the night of October 29 and 30, gearing up for a challenging series against Australia.

ODI series schedule:

• 4 November: MCG, Melbourne (D/N) 
• 8 November: Adelaide Oval, Adelaide (D/N) 
• 10 November: Perth Stadium, Perth (D/N)

T20I series schedule:

• 14 November: The Gabba, Brisbane (N)
• 16 November: SCG, Sydney (N)
• 18 November: Bellerive Oval, Hobart (N)

After the Australia tour, Pakistan will head to Zimbabwe for a series featuring three ODIs and three T20 matches, giving emerging players a chance to shine from November 20 to December 5.