The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has finalized the country’s World Cup squad for the tournament set to commence on October 5, 2023, in India. This decision comes after several players sustained injuries during the Asia Cup, necessitating changes to the original team.
The new squad is a slightly modified version of the Asia Cup team. The selection committee, led by Chief Selector Inzamam-ul-Haq, decided against making some changes to the Asia Cup squad. However, spinner Abrar Ahmed is expected to be added to the World Cup team.
The final decision will be made after Inzamam-ul-Haq consults with PCB Chairman Zaka Ashraf, who will then approve the selected players. The official announcement of the World Cup squad is anticipated to be made next week.
Several key players have been affected by injuries. Naseem Shah, a crucial pacer for the team, is likely to miss the entire World Cup due to a shoulder injury. However, the PCB has not yet made a final announcement regarding his exclusion.
Haris Rauf is expected to recover in time for the tournament, while Agha Salman is also recuperating from a face injury. Opening batsman Imam ul Haq has suffered a back injury.
The PCB is currently assessing the availability of players who were injured during the Asia Cup. Despite these setbacks, the team remains hopeful and determined to perform well in the upcoming World Cup.