Lahore: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Sunday announced its squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, effectively stepping back from earlier indications of a possible boycott of the tournament in solidarity with Bangladesh.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi had earlier hinted that Pakistan could withdraw from the event after Bangladesh pulled out citing security concerns in India. However, the PCB’s decision to name the squad follows reports that the International Cricket Council (ICC) warned Pakistan of serious sanctions if it proceeded with a boycott.
Bangladesh were replaced by Scotland in the tournament after ICC-appointed security experts concluded that there was no credible threat to teams in India.
Salman Ali Agha has been named captain of the Pakistani side. Senior players Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi have returned to the squad, strengthening the team’s batting and pace attack. Fast bowler Haris Rauf was left out due to concerns over form and fitness, while wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan failed to secure selection following an underwhelming run in the Big Bash League.
The squad also features several new faces, with Khawaja Mohammad Nafay and Usman Tariq earning their maiden World Cup call-ups.
Pakistan’s squad for the tournament includes Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan and Usman Tariq.
The announcement signals Pakistan’s commitment to participating in the global event despite recent political and security-related tensions surrounding the tournament.
