Pakistan announces squad for New Zealand tour

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on Saturday the 15-member squad for the One Day Internationals (ODIs) for the upcoming tour in January of New Zealand, Down Under.

All rounder Imad Wasim and fast bowler Junaid Khan were dropped from the squad and replaced by all rounders Amir Yamin and Muhammad Nawaz, respectively, after consistent performance at the domestic circuit.

Meanwhile, the team will play against the Kiwis under the leadership of Sarfraz Ahmed, announced Pakistan chief selector Inzamam ul Haq, who will be joined with veterans Shoaib Malik and Muhammad Hafeez.

“The team has been selected keeping in mind the conditions and the recent performances of some players in the domestic tournament,” stated Inzamam.

“Azhar Ali makes a comeback in the ODI squad after being rested in the ODI series against Sri Lanka. He is making a comeback after gaining full fitness.”

“Junaid Khan has been ruled out of the ODI squad due to fracture in his right foot and doctors have advised him for a six-week rest. Aamir Yamin comes in to replace the left arm pacer in the squad.”

“Imad Wasim again feeling discomfort in his previously injured knee which ruled him out from ODI Squad. Immad has been told to work on his fitness  in NCA ,” added the chief selector.

The bowling department will be lead by Muhammad Amir and Hasan Ali, with spin provided by Shadab Khan and Nawaz.

Meanwhile, Pakistan is scheduled to play five ODIs and three T20Is between January 6 and January 28. Pakistan selectors are expected to announce the squad later this week. The T-20 squad will be announced later.

SQUAD: Sarfraz Ahmed, Azhar Ali, Fakhar Zaman, Imam Ul Haq, Babar Azam, Shoaib Malik, Muhammad Hafeez , Haris Sohail, Faheem Ashraf, Shadab Khan, Muhammad Nawaz, Muhammad Amir, Hasan Ali, Rumman Raees and Amir Yamin.