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[Saba Sports News] Following a successful Pakistan Super League season, discussions between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and players Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim, who had previously retired from international cricket, resulted in their return to the national team. Both players have been included in the squad for Pakistan’s upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand.
In a move to strengthen the team for the T20 World Cup, Pakistan has introduced several key changes including appointing Babar Azam as the T20I captain, recalling Amir and Wasim, and naming Azhar Mahmood as the new head coach.
Mahmood, commenting on the revamped squad, expressed satisfaction with the team composition, highlighting the strength in all departments and the strategic advantage that Amir and Wasim bring. He noted that Pakistan’s batting lineup features the nation’s top talent.
“We cover all aspects of the game with this squad. We have two all-rounders, and our fast bowling department is also very strong. The return of (Mohammad) Amir and Imad (Wasim) also gives us an edge, because we can use them at any given time. Our batting lineup possesses the best possible talent in Pakistan,” Mahmood was quoted as saying by the ICC.
Pakistan, having reached the semi-finals in 2021 and the finals in 2022 of the T20 World Cup, is optimistic about its chances in the upcoming tournament.
Mahmood emphasized that despite the team’s recent history without major titles, Pakistan remains a formidable contender in T20 cricket. He is focused on refining the team’s strategy, improving weak areas, and clarifying player roles in preparation for the World Cup.
“We know we have not won a big tournament since 2009 (the Men’s T20 World Cup) or the Champions Trophy (2017). But you can never write off the Pakistan team, especially in the T20 format. We have the depth and strength, but there are always areas for improvement. Looking at those aspects, especially in the areas that we have lagged behind, is something that I have worked on. So till the World Cup, we would like to develop a structure and game plan, to give role clarity to players,” said Mahmood.