As cricket fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming World Cup, chief selector Inzamam ul Haq shed light on the basis of the squad selection and addressed various questions regarding the team’s composition in a press conference held today.
Q: Hasan Ali’s Selection: Inzamam ul Haq explained the inclusion of Hasan Ali, who has been out of international cricket for a while. He cited the injuries to fast bowlers like Naseem Shah, Hasnain, and Ihsanullah as the primary reason for the selection. Inzamam praised Hasan Ali’s experience in mega events and versatility in bowling with both new and old balls.
Q: Review Meeting Absence: In response to queries about his absence from a recent review meeting, Inzamam clarified that he had a personal commitment. The meeting with the chairman was primarily focused on reviewing injuries incurred during the Asia Cup and discussing ways to support the team, improve resources, and enhance morale.
Q: Team Combination for Spin Conditions: Regarding the team’s composition for spin-friendly conditions in India, Inzamam noted that Pakistan had been playing with a consistent combination over the past year. He emphasized the importance of spinners performing effectively in the middle overs and mentioned Abrar Ahmed as a reserve option.
Q: Hasan Ali vs. Zaman Khan: Inzamam revealed that Hasan Ali was initially his first choice during the Asia Cup, but due to injury, they opted for Zaman Khan. However, for the World Cup, they needed someone with experience, leading to Hasan Ali’s selection.
Q: Player Form Before the World Cup: Inzamam addressed concerns about some players being out of form before the World Cup, stating that Pakistan had just two disappointing matches in the Asia Cup. He mentioned discussions on player workload and the need to manage it.
Q: Faheem Ashraf’s Exclusion: Regarding Faheem Ashraf’s exclusion after the Asia Cup, Inzamam explained the need for proper fast bowling options to secure wickets in India, which influenced their selection.
Q: Naseem Shah’s Status: In response to questions about Naseem Shah’s availability later in the World Cup, Inzamam shared that Naseem Shah’s injury is expected to keep him out for a longer period, and they couldn’t consider a partial participation.
Q: Pressure on Selecting Hasan Ali: Inzamam clarified that there was no external pressure on selecting Hasan Ali but emphasized the need for experienced players familiar with high-pressure events like the World Cup.
Q: Consideration of Imad Wasim and Sarfaraz Ahmed: Inzamam assured that doors were open for Imad Wasim and Sarfaraz Ahmed, and their performances in Pakistan’s domestic cricket would be considered for future selection.
Q: Player Workload Management: While Inzamam noted that players have the choice between white and red-ball cricket, he emphasized the importance of monitoring player workload and reviewing league cricket commitments.
Q: Shan Masood’s Consideration: Regarding Shan Masood, Inzamam stated that he had been considered but couldn’t make the final 15 due to competition and the form of other players.
Q: Performance of Spinners: Inzamam acknowledged that Pakistan’s spinners hadn’t performed up to their caliber recently but expressed confidence in Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz’s abilities. He suggested sending specialized coaches to address the team’s struggles.
Q: Mohammad Amir’s Status: Inzamam confirmed that he was unaware of Mohammad Amir’s current status but emphasized that the PCB doesn’t close doors for anyone, and players like Amir could make a comeback through strong performances in first-class cricket.
Inzamam ul Haq’s comprehensive responses provided insights into the selection process and the rationale behind Pakistan’s World Cup squad. Cricket enthusiasts now await the team’s performance as they aim to bring home the prestigious World Cup trophy.
