Pakistan announced their 15-member squad for the ODI World Cup on Friday, with the absence of Naseem Shah being the major talking point. Naseem had suffered a shoulder injury during the Asia Cup clash against India earlier this month, casting doubt on his participation in the marquee global tournament. Chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq eventually confirmed Naseem's absence and announced senior pacer Hasan Ali as his replacement. While the absence of Naseem is a blow, Pakistan will look to capitalize on Hasan's experience as they travel to India for the World Cup.
However, despite Pakistan's strong pace attack, the recent struggles of their spinners are a cause for concern for the team management. Pakistan's spin duo of Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz failed to make an impact in the Asia Cup, but the team has chosen to place its faith in them for the World Cup in India. During the squad announcement press conference, a reporter questioned Inzamam about the duo's struggles and compared their performances to India's Kuldeep Yadav, who not only took a five-wicket haul in the Super 4 game against Pakistan but also emerged as the player of the series in the Asia Cup.
The reporter attempted to compare the spinners, but Inzamam's witty one-liner in response left the entire room in stitches.
“Aapne ekdum sahi stats nikaale hain, par Kuldeep Yadav ko main select nahi kar sakta (Your stats are absolutely correct, but the thing is, I can't select Kuldeep Yadav),” Inzamam said.
In further elaborating on the decision to select Shadab and Nawaz, Inzamam emphasized the team's reliance on these two players to perform exceptionally. Additionally, he highlighted the presence of Usama Mir as a third spinner within the squad.
“He (Kuldeep) plays for another team. With Shadab and Nawaz I have tried to keep continuity. You are right that their performances of late haven't been to that level and we will hope that they deliver, else we do have the option of Usama Mir.”
Pakistan is scheduled to participate in two warm-up matches for the World Cup. The first match will be held on September 27 against New Zealand in Hyderabad. Prior to commencing their campaign in the tournament against the Netherlands on October 6, the team will also face Australia in another practice game.
One of the most highly anticipated matches, the marquee clash between India and Pakistan, is set to take place on October 14 at the prestigious Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
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