Image Source: PCB
[Saba Sports News] In a recent update from the Pakistan cricket camp, the national selection committee has named Haseebullah as the replacement for Azam Khan in the ongoing T20I series against New Zealand. Azam Khan’s sidelining due to a tear in his right calf muscle has provided an opportunity for Haseebullah to join the squad.
Haseebullah, a 21-year-old wicketkeeper/batsman, is set to link up with the Pakistan team following tonight’s third T20I match. He will be in contention for selection in the remaining two T20Is scheduled to be held in Lahore on Thursday and Saturday, respectively. Haseebullah previously made his T20I debut against New Zealand earlier this year.
Reviewing Haseebullah Khan’s career stats across various formats, it’s evident that he possesses significant skills. While he has limited exposure in T20 Internationals with just one match, his performance in First-Class cricket stands out. With 923 runs at an average of 38.45, including four centuries and three half-centuries, he has shown consistency and talent.
In List A cricket, Khan’s record is even more impressive, amassing 1751 runs at an average of 48.63, with seven centuries and six half-centuries. In T20s, he has contributed 481 runs at an average of 20.91, including three half-centuries. Haseebullah’s statistics underscore his versatility across different formats of the game.
Shifting focus to the series, Pakistan secured a comprehensive seven-wicket victory over New Zealand in the second T20I match. Played at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, New Zealand’s innings concluded at 90 runs in 18.1 overs.
Pakistan’s bowlers, spearheaded by Shaheen Afridi and Abrar Ahmed, delivered an impressive performance to contain New Zealand’s batting lineup. In response, Pakistan successfully chased down the target of 91 runs in just 12.1 overs, with Mohammad Rizwan leading the charge with an unbeaten 45 runs.
The fourth and fifth T20I matches between Pakistan and New Zealand are slated for April 25 and 27, respectively, at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.