Pakistan Unveils T20I Squad for New Zealand Series, Amir & Imad Wasim add up in the squad for the series.
Pakistan Bolstered by Veteran Returns: Amir, Wasim Back for New Zealand T20Is
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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a 17-member squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand, commencing on April 18th. The selection marks the much-anticipated return of seasoned campaigners Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim, who recently reversed their retirement decisions with a focus on the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024. Their experience and leadership qualities are expected to significantly strengthen the Pakistani outfit.
Babar Azam will continue to lead the team, resuming his captaincy role in white-ball formats. The squad boasts a healthy mix of experience and youthful exuberance. Alongside the returning veterans, uncapped players Usama Mir and Usman Khan have received their maiden call-ups, presenting them with an opportunity to showcase their talent at the international level.
Some notable absentees include Haris Rauf, who is sidelined with an injury, and Mohammad Nawaz, who has been omitted due to recent form.
This T20I series against New Zealand serves as a crucial preparatory stage for the upcoming World Cup. The Pakistani team will be aiming to capitalize on their home advantage and build strong momentum in the lead-up to the global showpiece.
Key Takeaways:
- Babar Azam retains captaincy for the T20I series.
- Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim make their comebacks to the national squad.
- Usama Mir and Usman Khan receive maiden call-ups.
- Haris Rauf ruled out due to injury, Mohammad Nawaz dropped for form reasons.
Looking Ahead:
The upcoming T20I series promises to be a highly competitive contest, with both Pakistan and New Zealand boasting formidable squads. The return of seasoned players like Amir and Wasim adds depth and experience to the Pakistani lineup. Cricket fans around the world will be eagerly awaiting this exciting encounter.
Pakistan's squad for T20I series against New Zealand :-
Babar Azam (c), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Amir, Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Usama Mir, Usman Khan, and Zaman Khan.
Non-travelling reserves for this series :- Haseebullah Khan, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Ali Agha.
New Zealand series schedule:
- 18 April – 1st T20I, Rawalpindi
- 20 April – 2nd T20I, Rawalpindi
- 21 April – 3rd T20I, Rawalpindi
- 25 April – 4th T20I, Lahore
- 27 April – 5th T20I, Lahore