The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced the Test, ODI, and T20I squads for the upcoming South Africa tour. After completing the ongoing Zimbabwe tour, where Pakistan have played a three-match ODI series and are playing another three-match T20I series, Pakistan will tour South Africa. After losing the first ODI, Pakistan won the ODI series against the hosts Zimbabwe by 2-1. On the other hand, while the last T20I will be played on December 5, Pakistan have already secured the T20I series by leading it 2-0. 

In the South Africa tour, Pakistan will play a three-match T20I series, a three-match ODI series, and a two-match Test series. The Test series will be a part of the 2023-2025 ICC World Test Championship. 

While Mohammad Rizwan will lead the T20I and ODI teams, Shan Masood will lead the Pakistan Test side. The T20I series, ODI series, and Test series will start on December 10, December 17, and December 26, respectively.

See Also: Bangladesh create history in Sabina Park, Register their maiden Test win in the Caribbean since 2009

Shaheen Shah Afridi is out of the Test squad

Last October, Babar Azam, Naseem Shah, and Shaheen Shah Afridi were dropped from the Test squad after losing the opening game of the home Test series against England. While Babar and Naseem have joined the Test squad for the South Africa tour, Shaheen Shah Afridi hasn’t been included in the Test team. For the South Africa tour, Babar is in all three squads, while Afridi is missing from the Test team, and Naseem will play in the ODI and Test series. 

Mohammad Abbas, who last played a Test match for Pakistan in 2021, has returned to the Test squad. While the left-arm spinner Noman Ali will travel to South Africa for the Test series, the off-spinner Sajid Khan has been dropped only due to pace-friendly conditions.

Pakistan never won a Test series in South Africa

Pakistan have won two T20I series, and two ODI series but have won only two Tests and never won a Test series. Pakistan drew a Test series in South Africa in 1998, where they recorded their first Test win in South Africa, and won their last Test match in 2007. 

Pakistan's full squad for South Africa tour

T20Is: Mohammad Rizwan (Captain, wk), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Haris Rauf, Jahandad Khan, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Hasnain, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Omair Bin Yousuf, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufyan Moqim, Tayyab Tahir, Usman Khan (wk).

ODIs: Mohammad Rizwan (Captain, wk), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Haris Rauf, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Hasnain, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem, Tayyab Tahir, Usman Khan (wk).

Tests: Shan Masood (Captain), Saud Shakeel (vice-capt), Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Haseebullah (wk), Kamran Ghulam, Khurram Shahzad, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Naseem Shah, Noman Ali, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha.

For the past few weeks, speculation regarding the future of the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 has been rife. The focus has been mostly centered on the ongoing tussle between PCB and BCCI as the Indian government stands firmly opposed to sending its cricket team to Pakistan. Out of eight participating teams, India is the only team that willfully wants to refrain from traveling to Pakistan citing "security reasons". The Indian team last toured Pakistan during the 2008 Asia Cup right before the tragic terror attacks in Mumbai which claimed countless lives.

Relations since the in-famous terror attack have been sour and the bilateral cricketing ties have plummeted to an all-time low. Very recently, right before the release of the official Champions Trophy schedule, the BCCI blatantly refused to tour Pakistan for the Champions Trophy and has also issued a formal communication to the ICC about the same. This puts PCB in a difficult situation who are reportedly taking all possible measures to host its first major ICC event since 1996. 

How did the PCB respond to BCCI's denial to travel Pakistan? 

As soon as BCCI's decision was conveyed to the ICC, it was learnt that the PCB had reportedly referred the matter to its government which is currently reviewing this highly sensitive situation. Previously, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed that his board is unwilling to make any compromises and quashed any hopes of adopting a hybrid model unless a written explanation is issued by the Indian government. 

As per a PCB spokesperson, the ICC had communicated this news to the PCB via email on Friday but a formal reason for India's omission was missing. 

"The ICC emailed the PCB informing them about the inability of the BCCI to send its team to Pakistan. No reason was given. There is nothing in writing we have received from the BCCI. The PCB has apprised the federal government of the situation."

Unlike last year's Asia Cup where the PCB gave in to India's "hybrid model" approach, the stance will be a lot more stringent by the PCB. And since Naqvi is also part of Pakistan's interior ministry, the stance can be viewed as representative of the government in this case. As per sources, the Pakistan government will advise the PCB to remain resolute in this matter and work with the governing bodies to host the Champions Trophy successfully in Pakistan. 

How will ICC respond amidst the political standoff between the two boards?

As the countdown for the much-anticipated Champions Trophy draws close, ICC will have a little under 100 days to finalize the future and the outcome of the tournament. As cricketing ties continue to get impacted amidst worsening geopolitical ties between the two nations, ICC now finds itself in a tight situation. Picking either side in a situation like this can invite consequences that the ICC may not be able to ascertain at this stage. Both Naqvi and jay Shah have close ties to their respective head of states. The situation will not become any simpler when Shah takes over as the ICC chair, on December 1.

In an unexpected turn of events during the third and final ODI between Pakistan and Australia, Pakistan captain Babar Azam turned into an on-field 'doctor' for pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi. The incident, which showcased Azam's quick thinking and concern for his teammate, took place at Perth on Sunday, November 10. Pakistan, on the verge of a historic ODI series win in Australia after 22 years, displayed more than just competitive spirit as Azam stepped in to care for his injured teammate.

Shaheen Afridi suffers painful thumb Injury mid-match

The injury occurred during the 26th over when Australian batter Sean Abbott completed a run. As a throw from the outfield came back, it bounced awkwardly and struck Shaheen Afridi directly on his left thumb. The star pacer immediately crouched down in pain, clutching his injured thumb while waiting for the medical staff. But before the physios could reach him, captain Babar Azam rushed over and began massaging Shaheen’s thumb in an attempt to relieve the discomfort.

This moment of camaraderie didn’t go unnoticed by the commentators and fans, who praised Azam for his immediate response. His gesture highlighted the strong bond within the Pakistan team and his commitment to his players both on and off the field.

Dr Babar is on the case! 👨‍⚕️#AUSvPAK pic.twitter.com/FupHfqon3p

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 10, 2024

Pakistan dominates Australia with strong Bowling performance

Pakistan’s performance with the ball was just as strong, restricting Australia to a modest total of 141. After winning the toss and electing to bowl, Pakistan's bowlers put the Australian batting lineup under pressure. Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah led the attack, each picking up three wickets, while Haris Rauf and Mohammad Hasnain contributed with crucial breakthroughs. Australian batsmen struggled, with Sean Abbott’s 30 runs being the highest score. Injuries and form issues, like Cooper Connolly's mid-game injury and Jake Fraser-McGurk’s struggles, further hampered Australia's efforts.

See Also: Australian squad announced for Perth Test with two potential Test debutants

Pakistan, now in a favorable position to secure the series win, is on the brink of making history by ending a 22-year drought for an ODI series win in Australia. As they chase a target of 141, the team has a clear pathway to clinch the series, showcasing both skill and unity.

Babar Azam’s compassionate gesture towards Shaheen Afridi added a personal touch to a high-stakes match. Pakistan’s strong showing with the ball and their united team spirit put them in an excellent position to claim a memorable series victory in Australia. This performance not only highlights their athletic ability but also the resilience and camaraderie within the squad—a true testament to Pakistan cricket’s ongoing evolution.

In a major decision, star batter Babar Azam has once again stepped down as captain of Pakistan’s ODI and T20I teams. In a social media post on Wednesday, Babar announced that he had informed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and team management of his decision in September. Citing the heavy workload that came with leading the national team, Babar shared that he wants to focus more on his batting and personal life.

This is the second time in less than a year that Babar has relinquished the captaincy. Following Pakistan's disappointing performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup, Babar resigned from all three formats, only to be reinstated as the white-ball captain in March 2024. However, after another challenging T20 World Cup in 2024, where Pakistan failed to advance past the group stage, Babar has once again chosen to step aside.

Workload and personal growth

Babar Azam addressed his fans on X (formerly Twitter), explaining that the decision to step down as captain was difficult but necessary. "Captaincy has been a rewarding experience, but it has added a significant workload," Babar said. He emphasized that by stepping down, he could channel his energy into performing better as a player. Babar also mentioned his desire to spend more quality time with his family.

Dear Fans,

I'm sharing some news with you today. I have decided to resign as captain of the Pakistan men's cricket team, effective as of my notification to the PCB and Team Management last month.

It's been an honour to lead this team, but it's time for me to step down and focus…

— Babar Azam (@babarazam258) October 1, 2024

Babar has been facing a rare lean patch in his career, recently slipping out of the top 10 in the ICC Test rankings. His decision to resign comes after attending the Strategic Connection Camp, a workshop in September aimed at planning the future of Pakistan cricket. Senior players like Shan Masood and Mohammad Rizwan were also present, alongside coaches Gary Kirsten and Jason Gillespie.

Pakistan's recent struggles and leadership changes

Pakistan's performance in the T20 World Cup was underwhelming, as they were eliminated in the group stage after losses to India and the USA. Throughout the tournament, rumors of a rift in the dressing room and clashes with head coach Gary Kirsten added to the team’s struggles.

This resignation marks yet another chapter in the recent musical chairs of Pakistan's leadership. Babar had previously stepped down in November 2023, following Pakistan's poor ODI World Cup campaign. Shaheen Afridi was appointed as T20I captain but was sacked after just one series. Babar returned to the helm in March 2024 but has now stepped down once again after Pakistan’s struggles in the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Future of Pakistan cricket

Pakistan has not played an ODI since their World Cup exit in November 2023 and has not played any T20Is since June 2024. The team is now gearing up for a three-match Test series against England in October, led by Test captain Shan Masood. However, Masood has also been under scrutiny after Pakistan's surprising home series defeat to Bangladesh.

See Also: WATCH: When the Test match was televised first time

Babar’s decision to resign could open the door for new leadership and a possible reshuffling of the team’s strategy as Pakistan looks to rebuild after a series of disappointing international campaigns. It remains to be seen who will step into Babar’s shoes as the permanent ODI and T20I captain moving forward.

Babar Azam’s decision to step down from his captaincy role is a significant moment for Pakistan cricket. After a challenging year with leadership changes and underwhelming performances, Babar’s choice to focus on his batting could benefit both him and the team. As Pakistan looks to rebuild and strategize for the future, all eyes will be on who will take up the mantle of leadership in the white-ball formats.

Pakistan cricket is bracing for a significant leadership change as star batter Babar Azam is likely to be removed as the white-ball captain ahead of the away series against Australia in November. The decision comes after Pakistan's disappointing performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup, where the team failed to qualify for the semi-finals, ultimately leading to Babar relinquishing his captaincy in all formats.

Babar's struggles and new leadership direction

Despite being reinstated as white-ball captain before the T20 World Cup 2024 under the new management led by Mohsin Naqvi, Babar was unable to guide the team to success. Pakistan suffered defeats to the USA and India, resulting in an early exit from the tournament. Babar’s personal form as a batter also became a point of concern, with his leadership questioned after the recent Test series against Bangladesh. Consequently, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is seriously considering removing Babar from his leadership role to allow him to focus solely on his batting.

According to reports from Geo News, the PCB is contemplating elevating wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan to the captaincy for all three formats. Rizwan has demonstrated strong leadership qualities in domestic competitions, most notably guiding the Multan Sultans to back-to-back finals in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

Mohammad Rizwan poised for captaincy across all formats

Further signaling the shift in leadership, Rizwan was recently appointed as one of the captains in the newly launched Champions One Day Cup, a domestic tournament aimed at identifying future cricketing talents in Pakistan. While senior players like Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Saud Shakeel, and Mohammad Haris were also named captains, Babar was notably absent from the leadership list, hinting at the PCB's diminishing confidence in his captaincy.

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It is believed that Babar was informed of the decision as early as July, following consultations between the PCB and white-ball head coach Gary Kirsten. The official announcement is expected when Pakistan reveals their squad for the Australia series, set to begin on November 4, 2024.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has denied No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) to star players Shaheen Shah Afridi, Babar Azam, and Mohammad Rizwan for their participation in the Global T20 Canada. This decision was confirmed in an official statement from the board, which followed consultations with the players and the national selection committee. The move comes just a week after the PCB similarly denied an NOC to Naseem Shah for the Hundred, where he was signed by the Birmingham Phoenix.

“The PCB had received NOC requests from Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi for the Global T20 event, amongst other players. After taking into consideration Pakistan’s busy and packed cricket calendar in the period from August 2024 to March 2025, which includes nine ICC World Test Championship matches and next year’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025, and following consultations with the three players as well as the national selection committee, it has been decided to decline their requests,” PCB said in a statement.

Focus on international schedule and workload management

The PCB cited Pakistan’s busy international schedule as a key factor in their decision. With the trio playing significant roles across all formats, their presence will be crucial for Pakistan’s upcoming fixtures, which include nine Tests, 14 ODIs, and nine T20Is over the next eight months.

The board emphasized that the decision was made in the best interest of managing player workload and ensuring peak performance for crucial international matches.

“PCB had also declined permission to Naseem Shah for The Hundred on the same grounds…”

From October 2024 to May 2025, Pakistan’s packed schedule features series against England, Australia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and the West Indies, culminating in preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy.

“The three are all-format cricketers, and their services are expected to be required in the upcoming eight months during which Pakistan will play nine Tests, 14 ODIs, and nine T20Is. As such, and in line with the PCB’s workload management policy, it is in the best interest of Pakistan Cricket and the players that they skip the upcoming event in Canada so that they are in their best mental and physical shape for the season, which commences with the two-Test series against Bangladesh,” the statement added.

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“Earlier, the PCB had also declined permission to Naseem Shah for The Hundred on the same grounds,” the PCB said in the statement.

“In the meantime, the PCB has approved NOCs for Asif Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Amir, and Mohammad Nawaz. The four players are predominantly white-ball cricketers, while Iftikhar and Nawaz are centrally contracted players,” the statement concluded.

Babar Azam is set to lead Pakistan for the third consecutive time at the T20 World Cup as he and the 15-member squad prepare to fly to the USA and the Caribbean for the highly anticipated tournament. With no vice-captain named and no travelling reserves announced, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is placing its faith in a stable squad, largely consisting of players currently engaged in a bilateral series against England.

The Squad and Its Preparation

Pakistan’s bilateral series against England is a critical preparatory ground for the T20 World Cup. With most squad members participating, the series offers a valuable opportunity to fine-tune strategies and build team cohesion.

Pakistan’s campaign begins with a relatively easier fixture against the USA. This match should boost confidence and give Pakistan a chance to fine-tune its strategies.

Key Matches in the Group Stage

Pakistan’s T20 World Cup journey kicks off against the USA in Dallas on June 6. It is followed by a high-stakes match against India in New York on June 9. They will remain in New York to face Canada on June 11 before travelling to Lauderhill to play Ireland on June 16, rounding off their group-stage fixtures.

See Also: Mitchell Starc hints at retiring from ODIs to play more franchise cricket

The subsequent matches against Canada and Ireland are crucial for securing a spot in the knockout stages. These games allow Pakistan to solidify their combinations and address any weaknesses.

SWOT Analysis of Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2024 Squad

Strengths

Pakistan’s primary strength lies in their bowling arsenal, particularly their fast bowlers. The squad boasts express pacers such as Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Amir, and Abbas Afridi. This pace attack is capable of unsettling any batting lineup in the tournament.

• Naseem Shah and Shaheen Shah Afridi: Both young bowlers have significantly impacted the international stage with their speed and skill.
• Haris Rauf’s Return: Haris Rauf’s inclusion post-injury boosts the squad, providing experience and raw pace.
• Mohammad Amir’s Comeback: Amir’s return to international cricket adds a layer of experience and expertise to the bowling lineup.

Weaknesses

Pakistan’s middle order remains a concern despite a robust bowling lineup and a reliable opening partnership. The lack of consistent performers in the middle overs can be problematic, especially in high-pressure situations.

• Inexperience and Form Issues: Middle-order batters have struggled with form and consistency, raising doubts about their ability to anchor innings or accelerate when needed.
• Fielding Concerns: Historically, Pakistan’s fielding has been weak, and any lapses could prove costly in close matches.

Opportunities

The tournament provides a platform for young talents like Azam Khan and Saim Ayub to showcase their skills on a global stage.

• Azam Khan and Saim Ayub: Both players have shown promise and have the potential to make significant contributions.
• First T20 World Cup Appearances: Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Saim Ayub, and Usman Khan are set to make their T20 World Cup debuts, bringing fresh energy and enthusiasm to the team.
• Amir’s comeback to international cricket after a hiatus presents an opportunity for him to reinstate himself as a premier bowler.

Threats

Pakistan’s batting heavily relies on their openers. If they fail to perform, the team could struggle to post competitive totals due to the shaky middle order.

• Pressure on Top Order: The burden on the openers to consistently deliver could lead to pressure-induced failures.
• Middle Order’s Inconsistency: The unproven middle order poses a risk, especially against stronger bowling attacks.

Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2024 squad, led by Babar Azam, is a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talents. Their formidable bowling attack is their biggest strength, while the middle order remains a potential Achilles’ heel. With strategic preparation and focused execution, Pakistan can be a formidable force in the tournament. Addressing middle-order issues and maintaining high fielding standards will be key to their success.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially announced its 15-player squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, set to take place in the USA and the Caribbean from June 1 to June 29. This announcement, eagerly anticipated by fans and experts alike, confirms that Babar Azam will lead the squad.

The Selection Process

The selection of the squad was finalized on Friday afternoon (UK time) after a comprehensive two-hour meeting of the selection committee. Key figures in this process included Abdul Razzaq, Asad Shafiq, Babar Azam, Bilal Afzal, Gary Kirsten, Mohammad Yousuf, and Wahab Riaz. Their collective expertise and insights culminated in a well-balanced team designed to tackle the challenges of the T20 World Cup. Notably, Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Saim Ayub, and Usman Khan will be making their T20 World Cup debuts.

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Experienced Players Making a Comeback

Two notable inclusions are Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim, who last played in the T20 World Cup in 2016 and 2021, respectively. Their return brings a wealth of experience and skill, which could be pivotal in high-pressure situations. Amir’s prowess with the ball and Imad’s all-round capabilities add significant depth to the squad.

Preparation and Training

The team’s preparation has been thorough, with players maintaining high fitness levels and sharp skills. Haris Rauf, for instance, has been bowling impressively in the nets, with confidence high, despite not playing in the recent Headingley match. The team looks well-prepared and settled, ready to face the rigors of the tournament.

Pakistan’s Historical Performance in T20 World Cups

Pakistan has a storied history in T20 World Cups. They won the 2009 edition under Younis Khan and have reached the finals twice, in 2007 and 2022, under Shoaib Malik and Babar Azam, respectively. Their consistent performances in 2010, 2012, and 2021, where they reached the semi-finals, further cemented their reputation as a formidable T20 side.

Group Stage Challenges

Pakistan is placed in Group A alongside the USA, India, Canada, and Ireland in the 2024 T20 World Cup. Each match in the group stage is crucial, with the clash against arch-rival India on June 9 being particularly significant.

Key Matches to Watch

Apart from the anticipated India clash, Pakistan’s opening match against the USA on June 6 will set the tone for their campaign. Other key fixtures include matches against Canada and Ireland, which are expected to be fiercely contested.

Pakistan Squad: Babar Azam (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan

No reserves have been announced

Player support personnel: Wahab Riaz (senior team manager), Mansoor Rana (team manager), Gary Kirsten (head coach), Azhar Mahmood (assistant coach), Simon Helmot (fielding coach), David Reid (mental performance coach), Aftab Khan (high performance coach), Cliffe Deacon (physiotherapist), Irtaza Komail (chief security officer), Mohammad Imran (masseur), Mohammad Khurram Sarwar (team doctor), Talha Ijaz (analyst), Raza Kitchlew (media and digital manager) and Drikus Saaiman (strength and conditioning coach)

Pakistan’s Mohammad Rizwan scripted history during the second T20I match against New Zealand in Rawalpindi, becoming the fastest batsman to reach 3000 runs in Twenty20 international cricket.

Fastest to 3000 Runs: Rizwan’s Remarkable Milestone

During the match against New Zealand, Mohammad Rizwan achieved the milestone of 3000 runs in T20 internationals, making him the fastest player to reach this feat. He accomplished this remarkable milestone in just 79 innings, showcasing his consistency and dominance in the shortest-game format.

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Rizwan vs. Babar and Kohli: Breaking the Record

Rizwan’s achievement surpasses the records set by his skipper, Babar Azam, and Indian cricketing legend Virat Kohli. While both Azam and Kohli reached the 3000-run mark in 81 T20I innings, Rizwan’s feat in 79 innings solidifies his position as one of the most prolific batters in modern cricket.

Pakistan’s Victory: Dominance at Rawalpindi

Following the rain-marred first match, Pakistan bounced back strongly in the second T20I, securing a comprehensive victory against New Zealand at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Led by stellar performances from Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Amir with the ball, Pakistan restricted New Zealand to a meagre total of 90 runs.

Despite early setbacks, Mohammad Rizwan’s unbeaten innings of 45 runs guided Pakistan to a comfortable seven-wicket victory. Rizwan’s performance contributed to Pakistan’s win and marked his record-breaking achievement of reaching 3000 runs in T20 internationals in just 79 innings.

Mohammad Rizwan’s feat of becoming the fastest batsman to reach 3000 runs in T20 internationals is a testament to his skill, determination, and consistency on the cricket field. His record-breaking achievement adds to his personal accolades and strengthens Pakistan’s batting lineup in the T20 format.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has stirred up excitement among cricket enthusiasts as they unveil their 17-member squad for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand, set to kick off on 18th April.

The squad announcement not only sees the return of Babar Azam as captain but also marks the comeback of seasoned campaigners Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim, who have decided to reverse their retirement decisions ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.

See Also: IPL 2024: Key points, Match 22, CSK vs KKR

Babar Azam Returns as Captain

After a brief hiatus, Babar Azam, the talismanic batsman, is back at the helm as the captain of Pakistan’s white-ball side. With his exceptional batting prowess and astute leadership skills, Azam is expected to lead the team from the front in the upcoming series against New Zealand.

Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim’s Comeback

Fans were pleased to learn that Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim are included in the squad. Both players have decided to make themselves available for selection, reversing their retirement decisions and bolstering Pakistan’s squad with their experience and skill set.

Coaching Staff Revamp

In addition to the player announcements, PCB has also revamped the coaching staff for the upcoming assignment. Former all-rounder Azhar Mahmood has been appointed as the head coach for the five-match series, with Mohammad Yousuf and Saeed Ajmal joining as batting and spin-bowling coaches, respectively. Wahab Riaz, previously the chief selector, will now serve as the team manager, adding depth to the management setup.

Preparation for the T20 World Cup

Pakistan’s squad announcement is a testament to their meticulous preparation for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. The team has recently concluded a rigorous fitness camp in Kakul, Abbottabad, aimed at fine-tuning their skills and boosting their physical fitness ahead of the mega-event.

Pakistan’s Packed Schedule

With the T20 World Cup looming on the horizon, Pakistan’s schedule is packed with crucial fixtures. After the series against New Zealand, they are set to travel to Ireland for a three-match T20I series. After this, Pakistan will face encounter against defending champions England in four T20Is.

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

Non-travelling reserves: Haseebullah Khan, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Ali Agha.

New Zealand series schedule:

18 April – 1st T20I, Rawalpindi
20 April – 2nd T20I, Rawalpindi
21 April – 3rd T20I, Rawalpindi
25 April – 4th T20I, Lahore
27 April – 5th T20I, Lahore