After being dropped for the England Tests, former captain Babar Azam and pacers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah return to the Pakistan team for the upcoming white-ball series against Australia. The selectors have also announced many new faces in the squads, while senior players like Fakhar Zaman and Shadab Khan have been left out. The PCB is also set to announce new captains for the limited-overs formats, with wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha expected to lead the team. Additionally, bold steps have been taken as the selectors plan to use the ODIs and T20s in Zimbabwe to test new players.
Pakistan's New-Look Squad Returns for Australia Series
Pakistan's cricket team has undergone a significant shake-up, with the return of former captain Babar Azam and two star pacers, alongside the introduction of several new faces, for the upcoming white-ball series against Australia.
Squad Changes
Captaincy Updates
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is expected to announce new captains for the limited-overs formats, with wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha considered as frontrunners.
Testing New Players
The selectors aim to use the ODI and T20I matches in Zimbabwe to evaluate potential players for future assignments. This bold move demonstrates the PCB's commitment to developing a deep talent pool.
Background
Pakistan finished second in the recent T20 World Cup in Australia. However, the team's Test performances against England have raised concerns, leading to the changes in the squad.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Why were Babar Azam and Afridi rested for the England Tests?
PCB rested the key players to manage their workload and avoid burnout.
2. Who are the new players in the squad?
Spinner Abrar Ahmed and fast bowler Haris Rauf are among the uncapped players included in the squad.
3. Who will captain Pakistan in the white-ball series?
The PCB is expected to announce new captains, with Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha as potential candidates.
4. What is the significance of the Zimbabwe series?
The selectors intend to use the matches to test new players and assess their potential for future assignments.
5. What is the current status of Pakistan's cricket team?
Pakistan are ranked 5th in the ICC Test rankings and 3rd in the T20I rankings. The team has shown signs of improvement but still faces challenges in consistency.
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