Men's T20 World Cup: Sarfaraz Ahmed, Fakhar Zaman and Haider Ali in Pakistan squad after rejig

Azam Khan and Mohammad Hasnain have been dropped from the party, while Khushdil Shah is now in the reserves’ list

Former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed, Fakhar Zaman and Haider Ali have all been included in the Pakistan squad for the upcoming men’s T20 World Cup following a rejig on Friday. Azam Khan and Mohammad Hasnain have, as a result, been omitted altogether, while Khushdil Shah has dropped to the reserves’ list, in place of Fakhar. The changes were announced by the PCB two days off from the deadline for the submission of the final squads for the tournament.

While that completed the 15 afresh, there was a doubt on the availability of Sohaib Maqsood, the 34-year-old middle-order batter who sustained an injury during the ongoing National T20 Cup. The PCB said that a decision on his participation would be made after medical advice was available.

Maqsood, the Southern Punjab player, underwent MRI scans for the lower back after the October 6 National T20 Cup match against Northern and missed Thursday’s Punjab derby against Central Punjab.

Some changes had been expected to the squad, which had been announced on September 6, based on performances at the National T20 Cup. Haider’s call-up marked a swift turnaround for a player who, just two months ago, was sent home from England after breaching Covid-19 restrictions. His form in the National T20 Cup, including three unbeaten half-centuries, have earned him a place in the final 15, while Azam’s indifferent form have led to Sarfaraz taking his place.

Fakhar’s inclusion was perhaps less surprising, with the player already part of the travelling reserves in the initial squad. He took the place of middle-order batter Khushdil, who, while yet to get a sustained run at T20I level, has found it tough going at the National T20 Cup this year.

More to follow…