The Pakistan Cricket Board has revealed the much-anticipated squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024, with the immensely talented Babar Azam entrusted with the captaincy. The lineup boasts a blend of seasoned campaigners and emerging stars, including the likes of Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Mohammad Amir, Saim Ayub, and Usman Khan. Notably, the exclusion of Hasan Ali from the squad raises eyebrows, suggesting a calculated decision by the selectors.
Positioned in Group A, Pakistan is poised for a series of high-stakes clashes against formidable opponents, including arch-rivals India, alongside Ireland, Canada, and the USA. The team's campaign kicks off with an eagerly awaited showdown against the USA on June 6th in Dallas, setting the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating journey in the quest for T20 World Cup glory.
Following his reinstatement as the white-ball captain, Babar Azam will lead Pakistan's 15-player squad for the T20 World Cup.
The squad was revealed just hours before the ICC deadline for final squad submissions, creating an air of anticipation among fans and pundits.
Pakistan's selectors sprung a few surprises by sticking to the touring party selected for the recent T20Is in Ireland and England. Notably, no players from outside that group were included in the squad.
Hasan Ali, recently released back to Warwickshire, along with Irfan Khan and Agha Salman, found themselves left out of the final squad, adding intrigue to the selection process.
Pakistan's current engagement in a bilateral series against England serves as crucial preparation for the upcoming mega event. It's expected that most players from the bilateral series squad will form the core of the team traveling to the Caribbean and USA for the T20 World Cup.
June 6: Pakistan vs USA in Dallas
June 9: Pakistan vs India in New York
June 11: Pakistan vs Canada in New York
June 16: Pakistan vs Ireland in Lauderhill
These fixtures promise thrilling encounters as Pakistan takes on formidable opponents, setting the stage for an exciting tournament in the USA.
In the forthcoming tournament, Pakistan has been slotted into Group A, where they'll contend against traditional rivals India, alongside Ireland, Canada, and co-hosts USA. Their campaign kicks off with an exhilarating inaugural match against the USA, set to unfold on June 6th in Dallas. This clash promises to set the stage for a riveting tournament opener, showcasing the dynamic prowess of both teams as they vie for early momentum in the competition.
Amidst a significant boost for Pakistan, pacer Haris Rauf makes a noteworthy return to the squad after recovering from an injury that kept him sidelined since January. Adding to the excitement, debut appearances in a T20 World Cup await Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Saim Ayub, and Usman Khan, marking a new chapter for these promising talents on the global stage.
Pakistan's prowess in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is undeniable, marking them as a team with a storied history in the tournament since its inception in 2007. Their crowning moment came in 2009 when they clinched the title under the leadership of Younis Khan, showcasing their ability to rise to the occasion on the grandest stage.
The team has also displayed remarkable consistency, reaching the finals on two other occasions. Shoaib Malik led them to the final in 2007, while Babar Azam captained the side to the final in 2022, highlighting their sustained competitiveness over the years. Additionally, Pakistan's track record includes semi-final appearances in 2010, 2012, and 2021, a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence in T20 cricket.
Despite not announcing any reserve players for the upcoming tournament, Pakistan's legacy in the T20 World Cup is characterized by a blend of triumphs and near misses, establishing them as a formidable force in the cricketing world.
