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Pakistan cricket fans were pleasantly surprised by the return of paceman Mohammad Amir and all-rounder Imad Wasim to the national side. The pair was picked to a 17-member roster for the forthcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand, which begins on April 18th.
This selection is a comeback for both players, who earlier proclaimed their retirement from international cricket. Their comeback is planned with the T20 World Cup later this year in mind.
“The experienced campaigners, Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir, were included after they reversed their retirement decisions,” the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said on Tuesday.
Wasim, a seasoned all-rounder, has an impressive T20I record of 66 games, over 500 runs, and 65 wickets.
His last international match was against New Zealand in Rawalpindi a year ago.
Amir, noted for his blistering speed bowling, has appeared in 50 T20Is, taking 59 wickets and maintaining a decent economy rate. His final appearance for the national team was in August 2020 against England.
Babar Azam’s reinstatement as captain of Pakistan’s white ball versions was also announced.
Other significant picks include the absence of Haris Rauf, who is recovering from a shoulder injury, and Azhar Mahmood’s appointment as head coach for the T20 series. Mohammad Yousuf (batting coach) and Saeed Ajmal (spin bowling coach) round up the coaching staff. Wahab Riaz transfers from top selector to team manager.
The Pakistani squad is now undergoing a grueling fitness camp in Kakul, guided by Pakistan Army trainers, to prepare for the next series.
