Pakistan T20I Squad Against New Zealand: Uncapped Usman Khan, Mohammad Irfan receive maiden call-up in Babar Azam-led side

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Lahore, Apr 9: Pakistan's selection committee has on Tuesday (April 9) announced the 17-member squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand, set to take place at home.

The squad features some notable inclusions, like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Iftikhar Ahmed, and Naseem Shah amongst others. Babar will be leading the side while there will be no vice-captain for Pakistan in the upcoming series.

Star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi - who was sacked as the T20I captain last month - has been rested by the selectors as a part of their workload management program. Mohammad Nawaz has been dropped from the side due to non-performance. Pakistan Team Announcement vs New Zealand: Highlights

In addition, all-rounder Imad Wasim and left-arm pacer Mohammad Amir made their return to international cricket after reversing their retirement decisions last month. Imad has an impressive record of 66 T20Is, contributing with both bat and ball, while Amir's experience of 50 T20Is adds depth to the bowling attack.

Uncapped talents Mohammad Irfan Khan and Usman Khan earned their maiden national call-ups following impressive performances in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024. In addition to the debutants, wrist spinner Abrar Ahmed retains his spot in the squad after being named in the T20I series against New Zealand earlier this year.

Irfan Khan, representing Karachi Kings, earned accolades as the Emerging Player and Best Fielder of the PSL 2024, amassing 171 runs at a strike rate of 140.16. With 499 runs in 34 T20s, including appearances in ICC U19 Cricket World Cups, the 21-year-old from Mianwali has exhibited promising potential.

Irfan said, "I am deeply honoured to have been selected in the Pakistan squad for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand. Breaking into such a formidable team like Pakistan is a testament to the dedication and effort I have put into my game. Now, my focus is on seizing this opportunity and solidifying my position within the team.

"I am fully committed to continuing to work diligently and proving myself worthy of the trust placed in me by the captain and selectors."

Usman Khan of Multan Sultans has showcased remarkable prowess, smashing two centuries and two half-centuries in the latest event. His standout performance includes a 36-ball century against Quetta Gladiators in PSL 8, setting a tournament record. With 1,207 runs in 36 T20s at a strike rate of 146.12, the 28-year-old Karachi-born batsman adds depth to the squad's batting lineup.

Expressing gratitude for their selection, Irfan and Usman Khan conveyed their determination to make a meaningful contribution to the team's success. Both players emphasised their commitment to upholding the high standards of Pakistani cricket and making the most of the opportunity bestowed upon them.

Commenting on the squad composition, Mohammad Yousuf, the selection committee member and batting coach, expressed confidence in the potential of the selected players. He highlighted their consistent performances and stressed the importance of continued dedication and effort to excel at the international level.

The legendary batter said in an official statement, "We hold great optimism and belief in their potential to become key impact players, yet recognise that this requires ongoing dedication and effort. I trust that both players will continue their upward trajectory, sparing no effort in proving themselves worthy of the selectors' and captain's trust and confidence."

Wahab Riaz, the senior team manager, emphasised the significance of the series as preparation for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024. He stressed the need for players to capitalise on the opportunities presented and strengthen their claims for the global event.

"As we prepare for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 in the USA and West Indies, this series holds significant importance for Pakistan. Rather than solely focusing on the formidable New Zealand side, we aim to introspect and identify areas for improvement. I anticipate that players will seize the opportunities presented to strengthen their claims for the World Cup," the former left-arm Pakistan pacer added.

Pakistan T20I Team For New Zealand: Babar Azam (c), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, M Abbas Afridi, M Rizwan, Mohammad Amir, M Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Usama Mir, Usman Khan, Zaman Khan. Non-travelling reserves: Haseebullah, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Sahibzada Farhan, and Salman Ali Agha.