Talking Points From Pakistan’s ODI Squad For The Series In South Africa

Pakistan’s ODI squad for the series in South Africa was announced yesterday by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Hence, here is a look at talking points following the development.

Read: Pakistan’s ODI Series In South Africa: 3 Cricketers Likely To Be Discarded

Fakhar & Imam Survive

Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq have managed to survive again. The decision to stick with both opening batsmen was taken mainly because the selectors were optimistic of a turnaround. Why? Well! Our guess is as good as yours!

Read: Possible Changes In Pakistan’s Playing XI For The Johannesburg Test

Shan and Talat All Set For ODI Debuts

Particularly, Fakhar Zaman’s poor form is likely to make way for Shan Masood making his ODI debut at some point during the 5 match series.

Owing to wickets in South Africa, Pakistan might look to replace the injured Harris Sohail with Hussain Talat who is yet to make his ODI debut. Therefore, Imad Wasim once again, might not be considered as an automatic selection for the playing eleven.

Read: Why Mickey Arthur and Sarfaraz Ahmed Aren’t Putting The Blame Right

No Place For Abbas & Junaid

Chief Selector, Inzamam-ul-Haq clarified that Junaid Khan despite recovering from the injury was not selected as the selection committee wanted to give him more time so that he is able to regain lost rhythm.

It was further clarified that Abbas wasn’t selected because the selector’s felt that he required rest. The right-arm medium is still likely to play during the ODI series against the Aussie boys.

Read: An Ugly Incident In Pakistan’s Dressing Room: What Mickey Arthur & Sarfraz Have Done Wrong

Amir & Rizwan Register Comebacks

In Junaid’s absence and because of a decent performance in the Test series, Amir has been recalled in the ODI squad.

More interesting to note however, is the presence of Rizwan in the side. He is there obviously, to ensure that a replacement is ready when and if there is a need to sack the skipper. Sarfraz then needs to be on the top of his game both with the gloves and with the bat to sustain his status as Pakistan’s first choice wicket-keeper batsman across all formats.