Pakistan vs New Zealand: Which PAK Players Are Favourites To Find Place In 15-Man Squad For T20I Series?

Add as a preferred source on Google

Pakistan vs New Zealand: As the anticipation builds for the Pakistan vs New Zealand T20I series, the spotlight is on which players will secure spots in the 15-man squad.

Scheduled to kick off on April 18, the series will feature five matches, with three slated for Rawalpindi and two for Lahore, culminating on April 27. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi revealed that the squad announcement, initially expected on April 8, will now take place on April 9 at 2:15 PM PKT.

Key contenders for the squad include Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir, who reversed their retirement decisions after discussions with PCB. Expectations are high for Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shadab Khan, along with emerging talents like Azam Khan and Agha Salman.

Despite injury concerns sidelining Haris Rauf, the likes of Shaheen Afridi, Fakhar Zaman, and Abbas Afridi are likely to make the cut. Spin options could feature Usama Mir or Abrar Ahmed, while UAE's Usman Khan, impressing in PSL 9, is set to join the squad.

The PCB is yet to finalise team management, with announcements expected shortly. Foreign head coach availability hinges on contractual agreements, with Naqvi highlighting a packed schedule ahead, including series against Ireland, England, T20I World Cup, Bangladesh, England, Australia, and South Africa.

As anticipation mounts, Pakistan's preparation at the fitness camp in Kakul underscores their commitment to fielding a formidable squad. With talent aplenty and crucial decisions pending, the upcoming series promises intense competition and thrilling cricket action.

Earlier on Monday night, former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood was named as the head coach for Pakistan ahead of the five-match T20I series against New Zealand, scheduled from April 18 to April 27 in Rawalpindi and Lahore.

Wahab Riaz has been appointed as the senior team manager, adding his seasoned expertise to the coaching staff. Additionally, Mohammad Yousuf will serve as the batting coach, while Saeed Ajmal will continue his role as the spin bowling coach, providing valuable insights to the team's spinners.