In light of their commanding performance against Afghanistan and with the highly anticipated Asia Cup 2023 set to commence on August 30, Pakistan Cricket has taken a significant step to fortify their squad. Riding high on their recent achievement of becoming the new world No. 1 ODI team, Pakistan is keen to maintain their momentum as they gear up for the continental cricket tournament.
Pakistan’s recent triumph against Afghanistan showcased their dominance, leading them to secure a flawless sweep. Their next challenge in the Asia Cup will be against Nepal in the tournament opener.
The latest alteration to the squad involves the inclusion of Saud Shakeel. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), having initially announced a formidable 17-member squad for the Asia Cup, has strategically introduced Saud Shakeel into the lineup. Although Shakeel played only one match during the Afghanistan series, contributing nine runs, he has been given the opportunity to be part of the Asia Cup setup.
Saud Shakeel’s entry into the squad comes as a replacement for Tayyab Tahir, who was initially named in the 17-member squad for the Asia Cup. This decision to bring in Shakeel shortly before the tournament highlights the selectors’ intent to infuse the team with renewed energy and versatility.
While Tayyab Tahir did not secure a spot in the playing XI for any of the three matches in the ODI series against Afghanistan, his journey with the team is not concluded. Tahir will travel with the squad as a reserve player, ready to step in if needed.
The revised Asia Cup 2023 squad for Pakistan now includes a mix of seasoned players and promising talents:
- Babar Azam (c)
- Abdullah Shafique
- Fakhar Zaman
- Imam-ul-Haq
- Salman Ali Agha
- Iftikhar Ahmed
- Mohammad Rizwan
- Mohammad Haris
- Shadab Khan
- Mohammad Nawaz
- Usama Mir
- Faheem Ashraf
- Haris Rauf
- Mohammad Wasim Jnr
- Naseem Shah
- Shaheen Afridi
- Saud Shakeel
- Tayyab Tahir (travelling reserve)
As Pakistan readies itself for the Asia Cup challenge, the inclusion of Saud Shakeel in the squad marks a strategic move to enhance the team’s capabilities and increase their chances of success in the continental tournament.