On May 2, 2024, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) revealed an 18-player squad for the forthcoming T20 International (T20I) series against Ireland and England. The matches against Ireland are scheduled from May 10-14, followed by a series against England from May 22-30. This squad announcement comes ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, for which the team will be narrowed down to 15 players post the first T20I against England at Leeds on May 22, adhering to the ICC’s May 24 deadline.
Squad Composition and Player Highlights
The national selection committee has made significant changes, bringing back fast bowler Haris Rauf and all-rounders Hasan Ali and Salman Ali Agha. Notably absent from the team that played New Zealand are wrist spinner Usama Mir and fast bowler Zaman Khan.
The Complete Squad List Includes:
- Batsmen: Babar Azam (Captain), Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Rizwan, Saim Ayub, Usman Khan, Azam Khan, Muhammad Irfan Khan
- All-rounders: Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, Salman Ali Agha
- Bowlers: Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Shah Afridi
Haris Rauf and Azam Khan are returning from injuries, while Mohammad Rizwan and Muhammad Irfan Khan were previously rested. Their fitness reassessments at the National Cricket Academy have been positive, instilling confidence in their readiness for the intense T20 schedule.
Salman Ali Agha’s inclusion enhances the spin options, which also feature Abrar Ahmed, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, and Shadab Khan. Hasan Ali’s return is backed by his vast experience and recent form in the HBL Pakistan Super League 2024, where he took 14 wickets. His ongoing stint with Warwickshire in the English County Championship adds valuable local conditions experience.
Selection Committee Insights
The selection process was meticulous, with the committee aiming to balance youth and experience to create a dynamic team composition. According to the Men’s National Selection Committee:
“Crafting this squad was a rigorous process, influenced by the immense talent pool available. Our selected 18 players provide a comprehensive cricketing package, featuring a robust batting lineup, versatile all-rounders, and a formidable pace and spin bowling attack.”
The committee also acknowledged the disappointment of Usama Mir and Zaman Khan, encouraging them to remain focused and prepared for future opportunities.
Training and Match Schedule
The team will convene for a three-day training camp in Lahore from May 4-6 before departing for Dublin on May 7. The T20I series itinerary is as follows:
- Ireland Series:
- May 10: 1st T20I in Dublin
- May 12: 2nd T20I in Dublin
- May 14: 3rd T20I in Dublin
- England Series:
- May 22: 1st T20I in Leeds
- May 25: 2nd T20I in Birmingham
- May 28: 3rd T20I in Cardiff
- May 30: 4th T20I at The Oval
This upcoming series not only serves as a precursor to the T20 World Cup but also provides a platform for players to cement their places in the national team, showcasing their prowess on an international stage.