The Pakistan cricket team has made significant changes to their squad for the upcoming ODIs in Asia Cup 2023. Shan Masood, Haris Sohail, and Ihsanullah have been removed, while Faheem Ashraf has made a comeback after a gap of over two years. The decision to drop Masood was prompted by his poor performance in ODIs, where he has only managed to score 52 runs in nine matches. Ashraf’s return, on the other hand, is a result of his impressive form in tournaments like the PSL. These changes in the squad reflect the team’s commitment to selecting players based on their current abilities and potential contributions to the World Cup.
🚨 Our squad for the Afghanistan series and Asia Cup 🚨
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) August 9, 2023
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Replacement of Shan Masood
The Pakistan squad announced the removal of Shan Masood, who has seen a decline in his performances in ODIs, making way for new players like Saud Shakeel. Masood, who was appointed ODI vice-captain in January 2023, has played just nine ODIs in his career, scoring a total of 52 runs. His performances in the format have not been up to the mark, leading to his exclusion from the squad. On the other hand, Shakeel’s inclusion has the potential to make a significant impact. He has been in impressive form recently and has shown great potential as a middle-order batsman.
Faheem Ashraf’s Comeback
After a hiatus of over two years, fast-bowling allrounder Faheem Ashraf has been recalled to the Pakistan squad for the ODIs against Afghanistan. Ashraf, who last played an ODI in July 2021, has been in good form recently, particularly in tournaments like the PSL. His inclusion is seen as a boost for Pakistan’s World Cup preparations, as his ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a valuable asset. Ashraf’s return to the squad highlights the selectors’ recognition of his recent performances and his potential role in the upcoming World Cup. With his experience and skill set, Ashraf’s presence adds depth to Pakistan’s all-round options and provides the team with a versatile player who can make an impact in crucial moments.
Squad Changes and Implications
Recalled after a gap of more than two years, Faheem Ashraf’s return to the squad brings valuable all-round depth to Pakistan’s World Cup preparations. His inclusion adds strength to the team’s bowling attack and provides a batting option in the lower order. Ashraf has been in good form in recent tournaments, especially in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). His ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a valuable asset for the team.
In addition to Ashraf, the squad also sees the inclusion of Tayyab Tahir, who has earned his second call-up to the ODI side. Tahir impressed with his performances in the Pakistan Cup campaign, where he was the leading run-getter. He also played a match-winning century in the ACC Men’s Emerging Cup final. While Tahir has limited exposure in ODIs, his inclusion shows the selectors’ willingness to give young talent a chance.
Looking ahead, the squad changes and the inclusion of Tahir indicate that the selection process is open and the chief selector, Inzamam-ul-Haq, is keeping an eye on future plans. Inzamam-ul-Haq, who recently took over as chief selector, is expected to assess the entire first-class structure for future selection. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is also expected to announce sweeping changes to the domestic tournaments, suggesting that future selection plans are being carefully considered.
Pakistan Asia Cup 2023 Squad
Below is the complete Pakistan Asia Cup Squad 2023.
Babar Azam (capt), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saud Shakeel, Fakhar Zaman, Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Saud Shakeel, Salman Ali Agha, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Haris (wk), Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Wasim.
Travelling reserve: Tayyab Tahir
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