The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is poised to unveil the squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand on April 5th.
At present, the selection committee members are evaluating the fitness levels of the players at the Kakul fitness camp. A comprehensive report will be furnished to PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who is slated to visit Kakul today to interact with the players. Naqvi has underscored the importance of maintaining optimal fitness standards without compromise.
Discussions are underway among the selectors regarding potential players for the squad. Recommendations, following consultations with captain Babar Azam, will be forwarded to the Cricket Board Chairman for final approval.
Also Read: PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi Pays Visit to Players at Kakul Training Camp
Sources indicate that selectors are deliberating the adoption of a rotation policy to mitigate the risk of injuries in preparation for the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 in the USA and West Indies. Notably, Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah are earmarked to feature selectively in matches against New Zealand to manage their workload and minimize injury risks ahead of the T20 World Cup.
A comprehensive discussion with Babar Azam regarding the workload management of Shaheen and Naseem is on the agenda. Fast bowler Mohammad Amir and all-rounder Imad Wasim, who recently ended their international retirement, are poised to receive substantial playing time to regain match fitness necessary for international cricket.
Meanwhile, Fakhar Zaman and Haris Rauf are still recuperating from injuries sustained during the ninth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Usman Khan is expected to be included in the squad and may bat at the number four spot in the playing XI against New Zealand.
The selectors are anticipated to name approximately 17 to 18 players for the home series, from which the final 15-member squad for the T20 World Cup will be selected.
The national team’s fitness camp is scheduled to conclude on April 8th. Concurrently, the New Zealand team is slated to arrive in Pakistan on April 14th for the five-match T20 series, kicking off on April 18th, with three matches scheduled in Pindi and the remaining two in Lahore.
