PCB announces 17-man squad for New Zealand T20I series – Sport

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Tuesday announced the 17-member squad for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand.

The five-match series will be played in Rawalpindi and Lahore from April 18-27.

In a press release, the cricket board stated that uncapped middle-order batsmen Muhammad Irfan Khan and opener Usman Khan had “earned the selectors’ nod” following their impressive performances in the most recent edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

Also included in the squad were wrist spinner Abrar Ahmed, all-rounder Imad Wasim and fast bowler Mohammad Amir.

Imad and Amir had both recently decided to take back their retirement from international cricket last month and were also part of the training camp organised by the army in Kakul.

Selection committee member and senior team manager Wahab Riaz expressed his confidence in the decision, adding that the decision to include the two players “was a straightforward one, given their availability for selection and considering Haris Rauf’s injury and Mohammad Nawaz’s current form”.

“Both Amir and Imad possess undeniable match-winning capabilities, and we trust they will consistently deliver strong performances to bolster the team’s objectives,” Riaz said.

Mohammad Yousuf, selection committee member and batting coach, meanwhile, congratulated Irfan and Usman on their selection, adding that they had “undeniably earned their spots through a string of consistent, outstanding performances”.

Yousuf also said that that they were optimistic about the players and their potential to become “key impact players”, adding that he trusted that they will their “upward trajectory, sparing no effort in proving themselves worthy of the selectors’ and captain’s trust and confidence”.

The PCB quoted Irfan as saying that he was “deeply honoured” to have been selected.

“Breaking into such a formidable team like Pakistan is a testament to the dedication and effort I have put into my game. Now, my focus is on seizing this opportunity and solidifying my position within the team,” he asserted.

“I am fully committed to continuing to work diligently and proving myself worthy of the trust placed in me by the captain and selectors,” he said.

Usman also expressed gratitude at being chosen in the squad.

“This selection validates the relentless effort and dedication I have poured into my craft, and I am fully committed to upholding the high standards I have set for myself,” he said.

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