Pakistan cricket fans are on the edge of their seats today as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is expected to announce the final 18-man squad for the upcoming T20 series against New Zealand.
The much-anticipated matches kick off on April 18th, with the New Zealand team arriving a few days prior on the 14th.
Babar Azam, recently reinstated as captain of the Pakistan white-ball team, will be at the helm for this series. A major talking point has been the inclusion of Haris Rauf, a star fast bowler currently recovering from a shoulder injury. While his participation remains uncertain, several established names like Mohammad Rizwan and the exciting young batsman Saim Ayub are likely locks for the squad.
However, there’s a chance fans might not see Shaheen Shah Afridi in every match. The PCB, aiming to manage workloads and avoid burnout for key players, might give the pace ace some rest. This opens the door for younger talents like Usama Mir, a promising leg-spinner, to potentially cut. Other players expected to be in contention include seasoned all-rounder Iftikhar Ahmed, the explosive hitter Azam Khan, and the ever-reliable Shadab Khan.
The final announcement could also see some interesting inclusions. Names like Sahibzada Farhan and Salman Ali Agha are being tossed around for potential batting slots. Additionally, the fate of Fakhar Zaman hangs in the balance due to a hand injury. A final call on his participation will rely on medical evaluation.
With a mix of experience and youthful exuberance, this T20 series promises to be a thrilling spectacle. The official squad announcement will reveal the final team Pakistan throws against New Zealand, and cricket fans around the world are eagerly waiting to see who cuts!