Pakistan’s Chief Selector, Haroon Rasheed, has highlighted his squad selection strategy for the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka next month. Speaking to the media, Rasheed emphasised that no player can sustain peak performance indefinitely and that even the best players can face challenges when first starting out. He cited examples of Azhar Ali and Mohammad Yousuf, who both initially struggled but eventually found their rhythm. Rasheed believes that new players need time to settle and make their place in the team, and said that players such as Mohammad Huraira could fill the spot of big players like Azhar Ali.
Rasheed also talked about the importance of nurturing younger talent, adding Kamran Ghulam to the squad. He said that younger players require more attention and exposure in order to prepare them for future tours. “Juniors are receiving more attention for upcoming tours. We are also working on our back-up strength. Kamran Ghulam will also be included in our future plans,” he said.
The management revealed that left-arm pacer Shaheen Afridi, who was sidelined due to injury, will be bowling more overs to regain full fitness ahead of the World Cup. They have requested the county to arrange a three-day match for Afridi to help him regain optimal fitness.
Pakistan will assemble in Karachi on 3 July for a camp ahead of their departure for Sri Lanka on 9 July. The itinerary of the tour will be announced by Sri Lanka Cricket in due course. Pakistan and Sri Lanka last played a Test series in July 2022 that was drawn 1-1.
Fast bowler Shaheen Afridi returns to Pakistan’s Test squad for the two-match away series against Sri Lanka next month. The men’s national selection committee has also included uncapped batter Mohammad Huraira and all-rounder Aamir Jamal in the 16-strong squad for what will be Pakistan’s first assignment in the third cycle of the ICC World Test Championship.
