Cricket fans in Pakistan were buzzing after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) revealed the 18-man squad for the upcoming tours to Ireland and England.
This announcement included the return of fast bowler Hasan Ali, sparking questions about his role in the team.
The PCB wasted no time in explaining Hasan’s comeback. Selector Wahab Riaz spoke at a press conference, clarifying that Hasan was already considered for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. Since he was fulfilling a contract playing county cricket, he wasn’t included in recent matches.
However, there’s a twist. Riaz also revealed that Hasan will initially be the backup for another fast bowler, Haris Rauf. If Haris recovers from his injury before the England series, he’ll be the first choice. But if Haris isn’t fit, Hasan will step in.
This news comes after Hasan’s last T20 appearance for Pakistan in September 2022 against Sri Lanka. He hasn’t played any one-day internationals since November 2023 and only participated in Tests against Australia this year.
The full squad boasts some of Pakistan’s biggest names, including captain Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and several exciting young talents.
The team will first face Ireland in a three-match T20 series starting May 10th. After a short break, they’ll travel to England for another four-match T20 series beginning on May 22nd. These matches will be crucial preparation for the highly anticipated T20 World Cup later this year.