The Pakistan Cricket Team has been thrust into the spotlight following their disappointing campaign in the Asia Cup 2023. Their fortunes took a turn for the worse after suffering a crushing 228-run defeat to India during the Super Four stage, followed by a defeat to Sri Lanka that led to their elimination from the tournament.
Reports suggest that there has been discord among the players, creating an uneasy atmosphere in the dressing room. Notably, Skipper Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi were involved in a heated verbal exchange following the team’s exit from the Asia Cup. To compound their woes, injuries have also plagued the team.
Premier pacer Haris Rauf is sidelined with an injury, and Naseem Shah has been ruled out of the ICC World Cup 2023. Furthermore, Shadab Khan’s performances have come under scrutiny, putting his position as vice-captain and his spot in the squad for the ICC World Cup in jeopardy. In his place, Shaheen Afridi is being considered for the vice-captaincy role.
Reports from Ghavev have indicated that Shadab Khan’s lackluster show with both bat and ball has diminished his chances of making the squad for the ICC World Cup 2023. As a replacement, Shaheen Afridi is likely to be entrusted with the vice-captain’s responsibilities.
Furthermore, Pakistan is contemplating the recall of Hasan Ali into the team for the ICC World Cup. Hasan Ali, who has been absent from the setup for a while, may find an opportunity, especially considering Naseem Shah’s injury. However, it appears that Imad Wasim is still not in contention. On a more positive note, Saud Shakeel is strongly poised to be part of the squad for the ICC major event.
Also read: Shocking Change in Pakistan World Cup Squad: No Shadab, Naseem, Fakhar
Recent reports have also revealed potential changes to the Pakistan squad for the ICC World Cup 2023. In place of Naseem Shah, it is likely that Zaman Khan will secure a spot in the team. Zaman Khan impressed with his death bowling during the Asia Cup 2023. Shadab Khan, under scrutiny, is expected to make way for Abrar Ahmed.
Pakistan’s Provisional Squad for World Cup
Babar Azam (c), Imam-ul-Haq, Fakhar Zaman, Abdulla Shafiq, Salman Ali Agha, Iftikhar Ahmed, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Abrar Ahmed, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Hassan Ali and Zaman Khan
