Behind the game: Exclusive insights into Pakistan’s World Cup 2023 squad

After days of anticipation, Pakistan’s men’s cricket team’s chief selector, Inzamam-ul-Haq, has finally revealed the lineup that will represent Pakistan in the upcoming ICC Men’s World Cup 2023. Leading this formidable squad will be none other than Babar Azam, with an ensemble of talented players at his side. Let’s delve into the squad and the intriguing questions it raises.

1. Babar Azam (Captain)
2. Shadab Khan
3. Abdullah Shafiq
4. Fakhar Zaman
5. Haris Rauf
6. Hasan Ali
7. Iftikhar Ahmed
8. Imam-ul-Haq
9. Mohammad Nawaz
10. Mohammad Rizwan
11. M Wasim Jr.
12. Saud Shakeel
13. Salman Ali Agha
14. Shaheen Shah Afridi
15. Usama Mir

Reserve Players

– Mohammad Haris
– Zaman Khan
– Abrar Ahmed

With a roster of 15 players, the burning question remains: who will make it to the playing XI? This debate is sure to ignite discussions among cricket enthusiasts.

Bowling Strategy

Given that the majority of the tournament matches will unfold on spin-friendly pitches in India, spinners are expected to play a pivotal role. The spin attack comprises Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, and Muhammad Nawaz. Additionally, all-rounders Salman Ali Agha and Iftikhar Ahmed offer spin bowling options, adding depth to the spin department. The pace attack is spearheaded by Shaheen Shah Afridi, complemented by Haris Rauf, Hassan Ali, and the emerging Mohammad Wasim Jr. Zaman Khan, a reserve player, adds to the pace bowling options.

Notable Exclusions

Fans expressed disappointment over the absence of Imad Wasim, a proven performer in international league cricket, in the squad. Imad’s omission raises questions, especially given recent struggles of Pakistan’s spinners. Usama Mir’s inclusion as the third specialist spinner has left fans eager to see how he performs on the world stage.

Promising Batsmen

Two rising stars, Saud Shakeel and Abdullah Shafique, have made their presence felt despite limited ODI experience. Abdullah’s impressive performance in the Asia Cup 2023, particularly his standout half-century, adds depth to Pakistan’s batting lineup.

Batting order

Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq are likely to assume the opening roles, with Abdullah Shafique as a strong contender for the top order.

Reserves’ special qualities

Reserve players Abrar Ahmed, Haris, and Zaman offer unique qualities. Abrar, despite no ODI experience, brings an element of surprise as Pakistan’s mystery-spinner. Haris, with a solid T20 record and Emerging Asia Cup captaincy, stands ready to step in if needed, including as a wicket-keeper in case of Rizwan’s absence.

The Hasan Ali factor

The inclusion of Hasan Ali as a replacement for the injured Naseem Shah has been a topic of fervent debate. Hasan’s history, particularly his star turns in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy, fuels hopes of a repeat performance. However, critics remember the crucial catch he dropped in the 2021 T20 World Cup semi-finals against Australia. Hasan’s performance will be closely watched, as Pakistan cricket enthusiasts yearn for him to be a catalyst for success once more. After all, he is the only bowler to have clocked 219 km/h bowling speed. (wink wink).

As Pakistan gears up for the ICC Men’s World Cup 2023, the spotlight is on this talented squad. The question of “Which Pakistan team will show up?” remains, but one thing is certain: cricket fans are eagerly awaiting the action to unfold on the world stage. Best wishes to the Men in Green!