The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) recently announced the men’s squad for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, and it has sparked some controversy within the cricket community. The board made certain changes to the squad that were met with mixed reactions. While some people were not pleased with the selections, the board members provided justifications for each choice they made. It’s common for there to be differing opinions when it comes to team selections, as everyone has their own preferences and expectations.
Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the Asia Cup 2023, former captains Misbah ul Haq and Mohammad Hafeez were included in the Technical Committee of the PCB. This decision was made to involve experienced individuals in the squad planning process and address the issues that led to the team’s early exit from the tournament. The inclusion of these former captains brings their valuable insights and expertise to the table, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of the team’s performance and strategic planning for future events.
Although, Mohammad Hafeez resigned from the Technical Committee on Thursday night, but the reason for his resignation is currently unknown.
Zaka Ashraf, the Chairman of the PCB Management Committee, expressed the need for strict inspection of the squad due to Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the Asia Cup. It is important to thoroughly evaluate the team’s performance and make necessary changes to improve their future performances in upcoming events.
“It was important to review the Asia Cup performance,” said Ashraf. “Mohammad Hafeez and Misbah-ul-Haq have been advising me on essential matters”.
Former captains Misbah ul Haq and Mohammad Hafeez believed that significant changes were necessary in the squad due to the team’s performance in the Asia Cup. However, captain Babar Azam and chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq disagreed and did not want to make any changes to the squad.
“We went with the advise of Babar Azam and Inzamam-ul-Haq in the wider interest of the World Cup and the Pakistan cricket team.”
Zaka Ashraf confirmed that Babar Azam selected Shadab Khan as the vice-captain in the World Cup squad.
“It was Babar’s wish that Shadab remains the vice-captain during the World Cup,” he said. “However, if he doesn’t perform, he will be dropped.”
Pakistan squad for ICC World Cup 2023:
Babar Azam (c), Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, M Wasim Jnr, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Saud Shakeel, Salman Ali Agha.
Reserves: Mohammad Haris, Abrar Ahmed, Zaman Khan
