Pakistan announced full strength for the 5-match T20I series against New Zealand to be played from 18th April 2024. The major inclusion has been Mohammad Aamir and Imad Wasim who came out of retirement. Babar Azam has been appointed as the captain of the T20I squad.
The batting department looks strong with the likes of Saim Ayub, Mohammad Rizwan, Babar Azam, Azam Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, and Usman Khan. The all-rounders include Imad Wasim and Shadab Khan. The pace bowling department includes Mohammad Aamir, Zaman Khan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi. Naseem Shah makes a return to the squad after recovering from an injury. Haris Rauf who missed PSL will miss the T20I series against New Zealand.
“Being chosen to represent one’s country is the ultimate dream and goal for any athlete,” Usman said, according to a PCB press release. “Today, I am thrilled and filled with joy as the selectors have granted me the opportunity to be part of the upcoming series against New Zealand. This selection validates the relentless effort and dedication I have poured into my craft, and I am fully committed to upholding the high standards I have set for myself.”
The spin bowling options include Usama Mir and Shahdab Khan. It is an ideal preparation for both teams for the upcoming T20 World Cup to be played in the USA and West Indies this June. The first three matches of this series will be played on the 18th, 20th, and 21st of April at Rawalpindi while the next two matches will take place at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore on the 25th and 27th of April.
Mohammad Aamir and Imad Wasim return to The T20I squad
Mohammad Aamir and Imad Wasim have been included in the T20I series against New Zealand. Aamir played his match for Pakistan on 30th August 2020. He decided to retire from international cricket.
Imad Wasim also announced its retirement from international cricket. He looked impressive in the PSL 2024 for Karachi Kings and was named in the T20I series keeping in the mind T20 World Cup 2024.
Pakistan T20I squad for the series against NZ:
Babar Azam (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Amir, Muhammad Irfan Niazi, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usama Mir, Usman Khan, Zaman Khan
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