Abrar Ahmed has been included in place of Shadab Khan in Pakistan’s ODI World Cup team.
Cricket Fantasy: Abrar Ahmed has been included in place of Shadab Khan in Pakistan’s ODI World Cup team. Shadab Khan was widely expected to secure a spot in Pakistan’s ODI World Cup squad, but now, his future appears uncertain following a disappointing performance in the 2023 Asia Cup. Despite only managing to take six wickets, Shadab’s lackluster contributions played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s elimination.
Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam, expressed his disappointment with the performance of certain senior players, with Shadab Khan being among those closely scrutinized. In light of this development, Abrar Ahmed has emerged as a potential candidate for a place in the World Cup squad.
Abrar Ahmed’s rise to prominence commenced during the Test series against England, where he showcased his remarkable leg-spinning skills. Known for his ability to deliver a variety of fast-spinning deliveries, Abrar has garnered significant attention.
Despite primarily featuring in the Test format, he has managed to accumulate an impressive 38 wickets in just six matches. Chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq appeared content with the rapid success of this young talent in the longer format.
While Shadab Khan may not be completely excluded from the World Cup squad, there are reports indicating that he could lose his vice-captaincy role. Shaheen Shah Afridi, who has excelled as the leader of Pakistan’s bowling attack during the Asia Cup, is currently the leading candidate to assume the vice-captain position.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is actively considering several administrative changes, including potential alterations to the team composition. A meeting is presently underway involving chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq, captain Babar Azam, and PCB chairman Zaka Ashraf, with final decisions pending approval.
In addition to Shadab Khan, the position of opener Fakhar Zaman in the World Cup squad is also in question, as he failed to register a single half-century during the Asia Cup. Furthermore, Naseem Shah’s participation in the World Cup remains uncertain, creating opportunities for Hasan Ali and Zaman Khan as potential replacements. Fortunately for Pakistan, Haris Rauf is expected to regain full fitness in time for the World Cup.
