According to the PCB, the squad will be trimmed down to 15 players for the major event following the first T20I against England on May 22, aligning with the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) May 24 deadline for team announcements.
Detailing the squad, the PCB emphasized the return of pacer Rauf and Azam to the national side after being sidelined in the recent New Zealand series due to injuries.
Additionally, wicket-keeper batter Mohammad Rizwan and middle-order batter Muhammad Irfan have been included in the side after being rested for two matches in the series against New Zealand.
“The four players underwent fitness evaluations at the National Cricket Academy on Tuesday afternoon, showing significant improvement.
This development has instilled confidence and optimism within the PCB Medical Panel and the team management regarding their potential availability during the seven T20Is,” stated the board.
Regarding Hasan Ali’s selection, the PCB highlighted the pacer’s extensive experience, having participated in 50 T20Is and excelling in bilateral series and ICC events.
However, fast bowler Zaman Khan and spinner Usama Mir, who were part of the series against New Zealand, did not make the cut for the squad.
“We acknowledge that Usama and Zaman may be disappointed […] They are talented cricketers with promising careers ahead.
They should continue to focus on their cricket to remain available if needed,” quoted the PCB’s press release, citing the selection committee.
It’s worth noting that the national team, following a three-day training camp in Lahore from May 4 to 6, will depart for Dublin, Ireland on May 7.
Pakistan’s squad comprises: Babar Azam (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Usman Khan.
Schedule of matches:
Ireland series:
May 10 – vs Ireland, 1st T20I, Dublin
May 12 – vs Ireland, 2nd T20, Dublin
May 14 – vs Ireland, 3rd T20I, Dublin
England series:
May 22 – vs England, 1st T20I, Leeds
May 25 – vs England, 2nd T20I, Birmingham
May 28– vs England, 3rd T20I, Cardiff
May 30 – vs England, 4th T20I, The Oval
