Pakistan has announced the squad for the three-match T20I series against Bangladesh which will take place from 24th January in Lahore. PCB has named uncapped players Ahmad Butt, Ahsan Ali and Harris Rauf in the 15-member squad whereas they have also recalled veteran players like Mohammed Hafeez and Shoaib Malik. Both of these players were not part of the squad for the series against Australia and Sri Lanka.
Meanwhile, Harris Rauf has impressed with his pace in the ongoing Big Bash League while playing for Melbourne Stars. Thus, Pakistan has made as many as seven changes to their squad to put an end to their dismal show in the shortest format of the game.
Pakistan will like to get back on track.
Pakistan had lost the T20I series against Australia 2-0 and they would like to get back to winning ways. Furthermore, the number one side in the T20I format had lost the home series against Sri Lanka 3-0.
In fact, Pakistan has lost eight out of their last nine matches and their head coach Misbah-ul-Haq believes it is unacceptable as they are the number one side.
Pakistan chief selector and head coach Misbah-ul-Haq said as quoted by PCB.com.pk, “We have lost eight of our last nine T20Is and as the number-one ranked side, this is unacceptable. We need to end our losing cycle and get back to winning habits leading into the upcoming Asia Cup and ICC T20 World Cup. This has played a critical role in our decision-making”.
On the other hand, Babar Azam had requested PCB to bring back the experienced players in Mohammed Hafeez and Shoaib Malik and said he is happy with the selected squad for the series.
Pakistan captain Babar Azam said, “I am happy with the selected squad and want to thank the selection committee for entertaining my request for Mohammad Hafeez and Shoaib Malik. I believe they still have plenty to offer to Pakistan cricket in the shortest format and their experience can be critical to our performances in the upcoming series.
