Sarfaraz, Haider, Fakhar added to Pakistan's squad for T20 World Cup

Former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed, opener Fakhar Zaman and young batting prodigy Haider Ali have made it to Pakistan's final squad for T20 World Cup 2021, which will be held in the United Arab Emirates and Oman from October 17 till November 14.

The trio replaces Azam Khan, Khushdil Shah, and Mohammad Hasnain in the final squad.

Meanwhile, a decision on Sohaib Maqsood's inclusion will be made following medical advice. The top-order batter underwent MRI scans after his National T20 match and missed Thursday’s game against Central Punjab.

On Friday, Chief Selector Muhammad Wasim confirmed changes to Pakistan’s squad after consultation with the team management.

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The chief selector said the National T20 helped him re-evaluate players' performance and make necessary changes to the final squad.

“After reviewing player performances in the highly competitive National T20 and in consultation with the team management, we have decided to include Haider Ali, Fakhar Zaman and Sarfaraz Ahmed in the squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021," Wasim said.

“The three in-form players bring with them a wealth of experience and talent and provide further stability, balance, and strength to the side."

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Wasim noted it would be difficult for youngsters like Azam and Hasnain to miss out on an opportunity to play the World Cup.

The chief selector said both players are in their future plans as a lot of cricket has to be played after the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021.

“I am pleased with the intensity and high quality of cricket that we have witnessed in the National T20. It has not only provided the players excellent match practice in the lead up to the UAE competition, but it has also given us the opportunity to closely monitor the player progress and then make decisions that are in the best interest of the side for what will be a cut-throat tournament.”

Interim head coach

Meanwhile, the PCB has appointed former spin wizard Saqlain Mushtaq as interim head coach and Shahid Aslam as the assistant coach for the T20 World Cup.

The board had already announced Australia great, Matthew Hayden, as a batting consultant, and South African bowling legend Vernon Philander as bowling consultant.

Philander has joined Pakistan's T20WC squad in Lahore, while Hayden will join the team in the UAE.