Pakistan’s cricket team has made notable personnel changes for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, dropping Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan from the T20I squad and appointing Salman Agha as captain. Shadab Khan returns as vice-captain. Rizwan retains the ODI captaincy despite the exclusion of Shaheen Afridi. The adjustments aim to rejuvenate the squad following lackluster performances in recent tournaments.
Pakistan’s cricket team has made significant changes ahead of their tour of New Zealand, with captain Mohammad Rizwan and star player Babar Azam dropped for the T20I series. Following a disappointing exit from the recent Champions Trophy, the selectors have decided to appoint Salman Agha as the new T20I captain, while Shadab Khan returns as vice-captain. Rizwan, however, still retains his captaincy for the ODI format, although Shaheen Afridi’s inclusion is not guaranteed as he has also been omitted from the ODI squad.
The squad includes several newcomers as Muhammad Haris makes a return after an absence from the national side, while the injured Saim Ayub remains unavailable. Hasan Nawaz, a young wicketkeeper, and Abdul Samad, an impressive batter from domestic leagues, have been selected. The cricket board has chosen to prioritize youth and untested talent, moving away from the experienced pair of Babar and Rizwan who have previously faced criticism for their performance as a combination.
The changes suggest a strategic shift, with Rizwan’s brief captaincy record showing five losses without a victory. While he has faced difficulties leading the T20I side, the ODI team retains a familiar structure, including Rizwan and Babar, alongside Abdullah Shafique’s return after being dropped recently. Akif Javed’s inclusion marks his first selection for the ODI format, expanding the squad’s depth in pace bowling.
Pakistan is scheduled to play five T20Is starting on March 16, followed by three ODIs. With the new leadership and squad selections, the team aims to regain competitive form in the international arena.
In conclusion, the recent squad announcements for Pakistan’s tour of New Zealand reflect a conscious effort by the selectors to innovate and overcome past challenges. The exclusion of experienced players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan signals a pivotal change in strategy while maintaining a core leadership within the ODI format. As the team prepares for international competition, the focus on developing young talent poses an opportunity for revitalization.
Original Source: www.espncricinfo.com
