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Three players who might miss out on Pakistan’s Champions Trophy squad

While every participating nation have announced their provisional squads, Pakistan has yet to finalize its team for the tournament

Three players who might miss out on Pakistan’s Champions Trophy squad PHOTO: AFP

The ICC Champions Trophy is set to begin next month, featuring the top eight ODI teams—Australia, England, India, Pakistan, New Zealand, South Africa, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. The tournament will run from February 19 to March 9, with teams battling for the prestigious title.  

While every participating nation have announced their provisional squads, Pakistan has yet to finalize its team for the tournament. As the selection process continue, there are three players who might be left out of Pakistan’s Champions Trophy squad.  

Mohammad Wasim Jr, once a regular in Pakistan’s white-ball squad, Mohammad Wasim Jr has delivered impressive performances in ODIs, taking 34 wickets in 20 matches at an average of 25.17. He also made his mark in the ODI World Cup, taking 10 wickets at an impressive average of 21.50 in four matches. However, his spot is now in danger due to the return of Mohammad Hasnain, who recently made a strong impact in the National One-Day Cup and in the series against Australia and South Africa.

Hasnain, despite his modest ODI record of 17 wickets at an average of 40.2 and an economy rate of 6.11, was part of Pakistan’s recent ODI series and is likely to be preferred as a backup pacer for the Champions Trophy.  

Usama Mir, known for his ability to generate sharp turn, played a key role as Pakistan’s lead spinner during the 2023 ODI World Cup in India. He has taken 15 wickets in 12 ODIs, including a four-wicket haul.  

However, the emergence of Abrar Ahmed and Sufiyan Muqeem might push Mir out of the squad. Despite his experience and a strong showing in the Big Bash League, Pakistan’s selectors may opt for Abrar and Muqeem, who have played a combined total of five ODIs.  

All-rounder Mohammad Nawaz has been a valuable asset for Pakistan in white-ball cricket, contributing both with the bat and ball. He has scored 406 runs at a strike rate of 88.6 and claimed 42 wickets in 37 ODIs.  

However, white-ball vice-captain Agha Salman’s recent performances have solidified his place as Pakistan’s primary spin-bowling all-rounder. With Salman ahead in the pecking order, Nawaz’s chances of making the Champions Trophy squad appear slim.