Talking Points After PCB Announces Pakistan’s ICC World Cup Squad

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Pakistan's Fifth ODI In South Africa, Pakistan’s ICC World Cup Squad
Image Source: www.espncricinfo.com

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) yesterday announced Pakistan’s ICC World Cup Squad that comprises of 15 players. Those selected include Sarfraz Ahmed (captain and wicket-keeper), Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Abid Ali, Shoaib Malik, Mohd. Hafeez, Harris Sohail, Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim, Hasan Ali, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Junaid Khan and Mohammad Hasnain. So, here is a look at few talking points after the major announcement.

Read: Revolt In PCB: Possible Reasons And Repercussions

A Well-balanced Squad

Pakistan’s T20 Series Defeat In South Africa, Pakistan’s ICC World Cup Squad
Image Source: www.icc-cricket.com

It is most definitely a well-balanced squad that includes a good mix of experience and youth. However, Mohd. Rizwan ahead of Shoaib Malik and may be Usman Shinwari ahead of Faheem Ashraf would have made better sense. Nevertheless, with Malik being an experienced campaigner and with Faheem being a capable batsman (something he is yet to prove at international level) the selectors perhaps looked for safer options. 

Read: These World Cup Probables Couldn’t Pass PCB’s Fitness Test

Amir and Asif Still In With A Chance

Second Day Of Pakistan’s Tour Game In South Africa, Pakistan’s ICC World Cup Squad
Image Source: AAP Image/Dave Hunt

Apart from the aforesaid 15, Pakistan has also named Mohd. Amir and Asif Ali as two additional players for the ODIs against England that they play before the mega event. Hence, if the two of them show form then there is every possibility of them making a surprise comeback in the world cup squad.

Read: Sarfraz Names Half The World Cup Squad While Addressing Media

Mohd. Rizwan Was Unlucky

Pakistan’s T20 Series Defeat In South Africa, Pakistan’s ODIs Against Australia, Pakistan’s ICC World Cup Squad
Image Source: tribune.com.pk

Mohd. Rizwan despite scoring two centuries against Australia couldn’t find a place in the world cup and thus, he should be considered unlucky. Still, he is likely to make a comeback after the event and following the retirement of Shoaib Malik.