PCB announced Pakistan’s squad for Ireland and England series on May 2, 2024. This squad consists of 18 members. The squad is set to take a flight to Ireland on May 7 for a three-match T20I series. The selection committee has clarified that the squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup will be finalized from these 18 members. Cricket experts are analysing this squad from different perspectives. Some are criticizing a few selections, and some are furious for not selecting their favourite players. Following this trend, let’s discuss four players who should have been included in the World Cup squad.
Number 1: Usama Mir:
Despite being the top wicket-taker in the PSL, Usama couldn’t secure a place in the World Cup squad. Although most players like Mohammad Amir and Usman Khan were picked based on their PSL performance, Usama Mir, with 24 wickets at an economy of 8.14, remained the top wicket-taker of PSL 9. His strike rate of 11.71 was also the best among bowlers who took at least 5 wickets in PSL 9. Usama Mir might be pondering where he went wrong. However, in his exclusion, it’s evident that Shadab Khan’s presence makes Usama’s position redundant. Instead of being selected as a backup, he has been overlooked in favor of Abrar Ahmad.
Number 2: Aamir Jamal:
Despite delivering an excellent performance in the PSL, Aamir, currently Pakistan’s number one pace all-rounder, was overlooked in favor of players like Hasan Ali. This decision has sparked controversy, with many questioning the selectors’ preference for Hasan Ali’s experience over Aamir’s consistent performance. Some fans and pundits even allege that Hasan Ali’s selection may be influenced by his close relationship with key figures in Pakistan cricket, including Babar Azam and Chief Selector Wahab Riaz. Tough luck for Aamir Jamal.
Babar Azam clarified that the allegations are baseless and that Hasan Ali is a backup for Haris Rauf, not included in the initial 15-member squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup. Moreover, he has been selected purely based on his experience.
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Number 3: Mohammad Ali:
In the 9th edition of the PSL, Mohammad Ali showcased his prowess in both powerplay and death overs. He emerged as a leading wicket-taker among fast bowlers and was the second-highest wicket-taker overall. Despite this, he couldn’t break into the 18-member squad.
Babar Azam hinted in his press conference that Mohammad Ali is a powerplay bowler. Besides, he mentioned that Mohammad Ali struggled outside Multan even in PSL 9. Therefore, he needs to work more on his game.
Number 4: Mohammad Haris:
Despite his below-average performance in PSL 9, Haris still maintains a strike rate higher than all Pakistani batters. His strike rate in PSL dropped from 181 to 171, but he is still a game-changer. If Pakistan wants to improve its strike rate, investing in modern batters like Haris is necessary.
Babar Azam stated that Mohammad Haris being out of form is one reason for his exclusion. Additionally, Babar mentioned that Haris is a top-order batter, and if he were selected, he would have to play in the middle order, which would have been unfair to him.
Description: Pakistan’s squad for Ireland & England series raises eyebrows as top performers like Usama Mir & Aamir Jamal miss out on World Cup selection.
