Pakistan announces squad for New Zealand T20Is; Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim recalled

Apr 9, 2024

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Pakistan announces squad for New Zealand T20Is; Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim recalled

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Pakistan cricket fans rejoice as experienced all-rounder Imad Wasim and fiery fast bowler Mohammad Amir have been recalled to the national T20I squad for the New Zealand series. Both players recently reversed their international retirement decisions, paving the way for their dramatic comebacks.

A mixture of experience and youth in Pakistan’s squad

Wasim, a seasoned campaigner with 66 T20I appearances under his belt, boasts an impressive bowling record of 65 wickets at a miserly economy rate of 6.26. He also contributes valuable runs lower down the order, with a career strike rate of 131.7. His last outing in the green jersey came a year ago against New Zealand in Rawalpindi.

Amir, known for his devastating pace, brings a wealth of experience from his 50 T20I matches. He has rattled opposition batters with 59 wickets at a decent economy rate of 7.02. However, his previous T20I appearance came back in August 2020 against England at Old Trafford.

Also READ: New Zealand announces T20I squad for Pakistan tour, Michael Bracewell to captain the team

The selection panel further bolstered the squad with two exciting prospects. Uncapped middle-order batsman Muhammad Irfan Khan and flamboyant opener Usman Khan earned their maiden call-ups based on their stellar performances in the recently concluded Pakistan Super League (PSL). Their inclusion signifies the team’s focus on grooming young talent.

Abrar Ahmed, the young wrist-spinner who was named in the earlier T20I series against New Zealand but had to withdraw due to fitness concerns, gets another chance to impress. He’ll be the second wrist-spinning option alongside Usama Mir in the squad.

Pakistan’s squad for New Zealand T20Is:

Babar Azam (c), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohmmad Amir, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usama Mir, Usman Khan, Zaman Khan

This 17-member team, boasting a blend of experience and raw talent, will take on New Zealand in a five-match T20I series scheduled for April 18-27 across Rawalpindi and Lahore. The series promises to be an exciting spectacle for Pakistani cricket fans, eager to witness the veterans’ return and the youngsters’ potential.