Members of the Pakistan ODI squad have arrived in Melbourne for their upcoming series against Australia, with the rest of the players set to depart today, as announced by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi met with the newly appointed white-ball captain, Muhammad Rizwan, and vice-captain, Salman Ali Agha, wishing them well and highlighting the honor of leading the national team.
Naqvi emphasized the importance of unity and resilience, encouraging the squad to work together for success.
Squad for Australia Tour
The PCB has announced the squads for the tours to Australia and Zimbabwe, featuring the return of key players and the inclusion of emerging domestic talent.
The Pakistan white-ball teams will play three ODIs and three T20Is during their November-December tours, starting with Australia from November 4 to 18, followed by matches in Zimbabwe from November 24 to December 5.
These tours are seen as crucial preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy, with selectors aiming to balance experienced players and new talent.
Key Returns for Australia, Rotations for Zimbabwe
Reinstated players Babar Azam, Naseem Shah, and Shaheen Shah Afridi, who were rested during Pakistan’s recent Test series against England, will participate in the Australia tour but will be rested for the Zimbabwe series.
Wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan will play in both the ODIs against Australia and Zimbabwe but will skip the T20Is in Zimbabwe.
The selection committee’s rotation policy aims to ensure readiness for the Champions Trophy while providing promising domestic players with international exposure.
Several players without previous ODI caps, including Aamir Jamal, Arafat Minhas, Faisal Akram, Haseebullah, Muhammad Irfan Khan, and Saim Ayub, have been included in the ODI squad. Jahandad Khan and Salman Ali Agha are set to make their T20I debuts.
Kamran Ghulam, Omair Bin Yousuf, and Sufyan Moqim, who have previously represented Pakistan in limited-overs matches, will rejoin the national side.
Notably, Kamran served as a concussion substitute for Haris Sohail against New Zealand earlier this year, while Omair and Sufyan made their debuts at the Asian Games men’s cricket competition.
Fast bowler Mohammad Hasnain, who topped the charts with 17 wickets in the Champions One-Day Cup in Faisalabad, also returns to the ODI squad after last playing an ODI against New Zealand in January 2023.
