The Pakistan cricket team is on the brink of a significant transformation. Following Babar Azam’s decision to step down as captain, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has dropped him from the team that will tour Zimbabwe in November-December.
Babar Azam Dropped
PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi will also announce the new white ball captain of Pakistan. The announcement is set for today at 3:30 PM (PST). With Babar Azam dropped, seasoned wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan has emerged as the leading candidate for the role. Rizwan’s extensive experience in domestic cricket and his leadership qualities make him a strong choice.
Babar Azam being dropped from Zimbabwe Tour comes after a series of disappointing performances. He recently stepped down from captaincy across all formats, citing a need to focus on his batting. However, he will return to the squad for the white ball series against Australia.
Pakistan to Face Australia and Zimbabwe in Upcoming Tours
Pakistan’s cricket schedule includes three ODIs and three T20Is against Australia from November 4 to 18. This will be followed by matches in Zimbabwe from November 24 to December 5. The selectors have announced a 15-member squad for each tour, blending experienced players with emerging talent.
Key players returning include Naseem Shah and Shaheen Shah Afridi. However, they will be rested for the Zimbabwe tour. Mohammad Rizwan will play in both formats against Australia but will miss the T20Is in Zimbabwe. This rotation strategy aims to keep players fresh while allowing new talents to shine.
Fresh Faces in Pakistan’s Squad for Zimbabwe Tour
The selectors have recognized standout performers from domestic leagues. Several uncapped players have been included in the squad to tour Zimbabwe. These include Aamir Jamal, Arafat Minhas, Faisal Akram, Haseebullah, Muhammad Irfan Khan, and Saim Ayub. Their selection reflects a commitment to building a robust team ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy.
Kamran Ghulam, Omair Bin Yousuf, and Sufyan Moqim are also set to make their international debuts after previous limited-overs experiences. This focus on youth signals a strategic move towards long-term success. With Babar Azam dropped, the PCB is focused on creating the next generation of cricketers.
Pakistan’s ODI Squad for Australia Series: Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Arafat Minhas, Babar Azam, Faisal Akram, Haris Rauf, Haseebullah (WK), Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Hasnain, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi
Pakistan’s T20I Squad for Australia Series: Arafat Minhas, Babar Azam, Haris Rauf, Haseebullah, Jahandad Khan, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Omair Bin Yousuf, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufyan Moqim, Usman Khan
Pakistan’s ODI Squad for Zimbabwe Series: Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Ahmed Daniyal, Faisal Akram, Haris Rauf, Haseebullah (WK), Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Hasnain, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Muhammad Irfan Khan, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shahnawaz Dahani and Tayyab Tahir
Pakistan’s T20I Squad for Zimbabwe Series: Ahmed Daniyal, Arafat Minhas, Haris Rauf, Haseebullah (WK), Jahandad Khan, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Hasnain, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Omair bin Yousuf, Qasim Akram, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Ali Agha, Sufyan Moqim, Tayyab Tahir and Usman Khan
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