Two changes have been made in Pakistan cricket team for the forthcoming Twenty 20 World Cup. Fast bowlers Mohammad Sami and Mohammad Irfan have replaced unfit Umar Gul and Yasir Arafat who have not recovered yet from their injuries. This was stated by coach Waqar Younis and Captain Shahid Afridi of the national cricket team at a joint news conference held here on Sunday.
They said that they were disappointed that Umar Gul has not recovered from his shoulder injury and Irfan from a knee injury sustained during the training camp held for the tournament. Waqar said Sami and Irfan, however, would be included in the 15-man squad before their departure for the West Indies next week.
The coach said no prediction can be made regarding T20 cricket but he hoped that the World Champions would put up a good performance in the tournament.Captain Shahid Afridi said that he would miss Umar Gul, however, he was impressed by Irfan's bowling talent. He said that he was aware of his big responsibility, but he expected good performance from his team.
The training camp continued for three weeks at Gaddafi stadium during which special focus was laid on fielding, physical fitness, running between the wicket and check on extras.
The Pakistani team will leave for the West Indies via London on April 24 to participate in the World T20 Cup, commencing on April 30. Australia and Bangladesh are also in the same pool as Pakistan, who are defending champions.