Pakistan cricket squad departs for Ireland and England tour

LAHORE: The Pakistan men’s cricket team has departed from Lahore for a tour of Ireland and England in early hours of Tuesday.

The 18-member squad departed from the National Cricket Academy in the provincial capital. The squad is led by captain Babar Azam.

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Fast bowler Mohammad Amir was unable to join the team due to visa issues. However, all-rounder Shadab Khan and bowler Hasan Ali were able set to join the squad in Ireland.

The Pakistan men’s national team is slated to play three T20 matches during their Ireland tour, scheduled for May 10, May 12, and May 14.

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After the series in Ireland, the team will travel to England for four T20 matches. The first match against England is scheduled for May 22, followed by games on May 25, May 28, and May 30.

After the England series, Pakistan will participate in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. The national squad for the upcoming world cup will be announced on May 23.

Earlier, Babar Azam conducted a pre-tour press conference. He addressed queries about the exclusion of Mohammad Haris from the current tour. Babar explained that Haris had failed to deliver during the Pakistan Super League (PSL). This led the selection committee to choose players they deemed more suitable.

The captain was quick to state that every player was “valued” and “integral” to the team. However, decisions have to be made in the best interest of the team’s success.

Babar Azam expressed confidence in fast bowler Amir Jamal’s abilities. The captain emphasized the importance of allowing him time to adapt to the T20 format as an all-rounder.

The captain responded to questions regarding the decision not to use leading wicket-taker Mohammad Ali in favour of Haris Rauf. Babar Azam praised Rauf’s swift recovery and positive attitude and stated that Haris’s best performance has always been in T20 cricket.