Usman Khan set to be invited for national camp, Imad Wasim not considered

The Pakistani selectors are set to announce a pool of around 25 players for a training camp at an Army base in Kakul from March 25. From this pool, the team for the upcoming home five-match T20I series against New Zealand in April will be announced.

The announcement of players’ names is expected tomorrow after the approval of the PCB chairman.

The name of all-rounder Imad Wasim is currently absent from the list of players set to be announced for the camp.

Imad was named player of the match in the final of PSL 9 for his five-wicket haul and batting performance. He also played a pivotal role in Islamabad United beating Peshawar Zalmi in the second Eliminator as he scored a match-winning unbeaten 59 for United.

According to sources, Imad Wasim's name hasn't been included due to his retirement announcement. Until he officially rescinds his retirement, selectors are unable to consider him for selection. A similar stance is held regarding retired fast bowler Mohammad Amir.

Meanwhile, Multan Sultans’ Usman Khan is likely to be invited for the camp after his impressive batting performances in PSL 9. Usman Khan became the first batter to score two centuries in a single edition of PSL this season. He ended up scoring 430 runs in seven innings at a strike rate of 164.12.

However, Usman will decide himself whether he wants to be part of the camp or not. Usman had earlier mentioned his ambition to play for UAE but he has still got 14 months left to qualify for the UAE team. The decision to include him in Pakistan squad will be made after his participation in the camp.

The likes of Mehran Mumtaz and Abrar Ahmed are also likely to be part of the camp.

Despite requests from former Pakistan captain Babar Azam and senior players to delay the training camp considering the recent conclusion of PSL 9, the request was not granted.

It's noteworthy that Babar and Imam-ul-Haq have departed for Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah.

The training camp is scheduled to conclude on April 8, just before Eid-ul-Fitr.