As the World Cup draws near, every team is mulling over the best 15 players to take into the mega event. Same is the case with Pakistan, as everyone is thinking which players will make it to the biggest cricketing event in the world.
After some good individual performances in the ODI series against Australia, players like Abid Ali, Mohammad Rizwan, and Mohammad Hasnain have presented a strong case for their World Cup selection. Although the series resulted in a whitewash at the hands of the Aussies, there were some positives for Pakistan cricket team.
In a press conference, Head Coach Mickey Arthur revealed that Sarfaraz will be the first-choice wicket-keeper, hinting at the inclusion of Mohammad Rizwan. If both play, Sarfaraz will keep the wickets.
He said that “we are very clear about our World Cup squad, saying that Asif Ali is being developed for number 6 spot.”
Asif Ali can prove to be dangerous, he has talent. We [are] developing him for the No. 6 batting slot, [we] need to give him confidence.
Regarding Mohammad Amir, the head coach said he is still a big match bowler.
Amir is a big-match bowler. He’s a wonderfully skilled bowler. It’s just that he’s not in form. It’s not necessarily his form, it’s the fact he hasn’t been taking wickets.
He informed the media that the selection committee and the team management are on the same page with regards to the final squad.
Pakistan team’s training camp will begin on April 16 or 17 and the 18-member squad for England will be finalized in the coming days, added the coach. Fitness remains to be a top priority for team management and fitness test will be held on April 14.
