Pakistan has revealed its 15-player lineup for the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, scheduled for October and November in India. The selection process prioritized continuity and trust in the existing squad. Interestingly, the national men’s selection committee, led by Inzamam-ul-Haq, opted for just one change, which was actually a necessity, from the team that competed in the recent Men’s ODI Asia Cup 2023.
Fast bowler Naseem Shah had to step out due to a shoulder injury he sustained while playing against India during the Asia Cup on September 11. After consulting medical experts, it was decided that he needs surgery and will likely recover in three to four months.
Additionally, the selectors have chosen three traveling reserves: wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Haris, mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed, and fast bowler Zaman Khan.
Squad: Babar Azam (C), Shadab Khan (VC), Fakhar Zaman, Imam ul Haq, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Abdullah Shafique, Agha Salman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, Hassan Ali, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Wasim Jr
Pakistan is gearing up for the ICC World Cup with two warm-up matches, one against New Zealand on September 29 and another against Australia on October 3. Their first official match in the tournament will be against the Netherlands on October 6.
Babar Azam’s team comes into the competition as the top-ranked side, boasting an impressive win/loss ratio 2.400 in the One-Day International format, making them a strong contender.