The eagerly awaited ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 is a major upcoming sporting event, set to take place from October 5 to November 19 in India across ten venues. As the tournament draws near, fans are eagerly seeking insights into the participating countries and players. Pakistan, in particular, has captured significant attention due to its impressive array of talented cricketers.
Anticipated to take part in the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, Pakistan, the former champions of 1992, have engaged in ongoing discussions with both the BCCI and the ICC regarding their participation in the event. The team is led by the charismatic figure of Babar Azam, who currently holds the top spot among one-day cricket’s elite hitters.
In the ICC One-Day International World Cup 2019, Pakistan secured a fifth-place finish among the ten participating teams, narrowly missing out on a semi-final berth due to a lower net run rate. In the present ICC ODI Team Rankings, Pakistan holds a respectable fourth position, indicating their potential for a strong team performance in the upcoming edition of the world’s premier one-day competition compared to their performance four years ago.
As they prepare for the upcoming title challenge, Pakistan is set to engage in two ODI series as well as the Asia Cup, aiming to address any lingering uncertainties in their lineup. The selection committee will need to finalize a well-balanced 15-member squad, including an additional top-order batter, a reserve fast bowler, a middle-order bat/all-rounder, and a backup wicketkeeper.
Leading up to the World Cup, Pakistan’s batting lineup has consistently posted impressive scores in one-day internationals. Key players such as Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Mohammad Rizwan will play pivotal roles for Pakistan. Beyond these notable names, the Pakistani squad comprises a blend of youthful talent and seasoned experience.
In a strategic move, Pakistan is considering the inclusion of Mohammad Haris and Shan Masood, which may involve the omission of Mohammad Rizwan from the squad. The team has two vacant spots for specialist batters, with a likely focus on securing a backup option for the top order. Among the potential candidates for this role, Shan Masood and Abdullah Shaffique stand out as strong contenders.
Also Read: Pakistan Squad for Asia Cup 2023: Sarfaraz Ahmed Ignored, Rizwan Vice Captain
Pakistan Squad for World Cup 2023: Shan Masood IN, Mohammad Rizwan OUT
- Babar Azam (captain)
- Mohammad Harris (wicketkeeper)
- Shadab Khan (vice-captain)
- Abdullah Shafique
- Fakhar Zaman
- Haris Rauf
- Ihsanullah
- Imam-ul-Haq
- Mohammad Wasim Jr
- Mohammad Nawaz
- Naseem Shah
- Salman Ali Agha
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
- Shan Masood
- Usama Mir