The ICC’s decision to drop Bangladesh from the upcoming T20 World Cup and replace them with Scotland briefly sent ripples through the tournament, putting Pakistan’s participation under the spotlight. Uncertainty flared after Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi said the final call would rest with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, sparking speculation that Pakistan could even pull out.
The suspense, however, did not last long. Within 24 hours, the chatter died down, and on Sunday morning, Pakistan put all doubts to rest by announcing their 15-member squad for the World Cup. The team includes Babar Azam, whose selection comes despite a recent dip in form, underlining the team management’s continued faith in their star batter.
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Squad announcement ends speculation
Multiple reports on Sunday suggested that the ICC could take strict action if Pakistan opted out of the tournament. Soon after, the PCB released the final squad, putting an end to all uncertainty surrounding Pakistan’s participation.
Key inclusions and exclusions
Babar Azam has been named in the squad despite a disappointing performance in the Big Bash League. He is expected to play the role of an anchoring batter in the lineup. However, senior batter Mohammad Rizwan has been left out.
Among the fast bowlers, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah have been selected. Experienced pacer Haris Rauf has been dropped from the squad, following concerns over his recent performances, including the Asia Cup final against India.
Salman Ali Agha has been appointed captain of the team.
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Pakistan’s T20 World Cup squad
Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay (wicketkeeper), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wicketkeeper), Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan (wicketkeeper), and Usman Tariq.
