Pakistan’s preparations for the much-anticipated T20I series against Bangladesh have hit an early hurdle, with Mohammad Wasim Jr. ruled out due to injury just a day before the opening match in Lahore.
The setback forced the selectors to make a swift decision as the team looks to start the series on a strong note at Gaddafi Stadium.
Stepping into the squad is right-arm pacer Abbas Afridi, who has been rewarded for his impressive performances in the domestic circuit and the PSL. Afridi’s knack of bowling through the middle and at the death made him the prime candidate to replace Wasim Jr, who excels in the same phase of the game.
Mohammad Wasim Jr injured himself prior to the PSL X final which led him to be ruled out of the match, serving a massive blow to Quetta Gladiators’ chances of winning their second PSL title. They eventually lost against Lahore Qalandars with one ball to spare.
This three-match series marks a new chapter for Pakistan cricket, with Salman Ali Agha leading the side and Shadab Khan serving as vice-captain with Mike Hesson taking the charge for the first time.
The squad features a blend of youth and experience, with several big names like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi missing out as the PCB focuses on squad depth and long-term planning.
All three T20Is will be played at Lahore’s iconic Gaddafi Stadium, with the first match set for tomorrow, followed by games on May 29 and 31.
With Abbas Afridi joining the ranks, fans will be eager to see how the new-look Pakistan side performs against a competitive Bangladesh outfit.
