With the T20I series against New Zealand done and dusted, Pakistan is now shifting gears for the upcoming three-match ODI series. While the 4-1 defeat in T20Is wasn’t ideal, the selectors have made two key additions to strengthen the squad—Haris Rauf and Usman Khan.
Haris Rauf: A Well-Deserved Call-Up
Haris Rauf was Pakistan’s standout bowler in the T20I series. He took eight wickets in just four matches, with an impressive average of 12.25. Despite Pakistan’s struggles, Rauf kept firing, proving once again why he’s a vital part of the bowling attack.
His inclusion in the ODI squad makes perfect sense. With Naseem Shah leading the pace battery, adding Rauf’s express pace gives Pakistan a lethal combination.
Read More: Hasan Nawaz: A Rollercoaster Debut Series Full of Highs and Lows
Usman Khan: The Backup Wicket-Keeper
On the other hand, Usman Khan joins the squad as a reserve wicket-keeper. Mohammad Rizwan remains the first-choice behind the stumps, but having a solid backup is always a smart move, especially on long tours.
Usman has been making waves in domestic cricket, and while he might not get an immediate chance, his selection is a sign that the management sees potential in him.
Squad Shuffle: Who’s In and Who’s Out?
A total of eight players from the T20I squad have joined the ODI camp in Napier. This group includes Haris Rauf, Usman Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Khushdil Shah, Irfan Khan Niazi, Abrar Ahmed, Sufiyan Muqeem, and Mohammad Ali.
Read More: Ali Zafar is Back For Official Anthem For PSL 10!
Meanwhile, eight players from the T20I squad are heading home via Dubai. This group includes Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Umair Bin Yousuf, Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Haris, Abbas Afridi, Abdul Samad, and Jahandad Khan.
Pakistan’s Full Squad for the ODI Series
Pakistan’s ODI squad looks balanced, with a mix of experienced players and fresh faces. The inclusion of Haris Rauf adds firepower to the bowling lineup, while Usman Khan’s selection ensures solid backup for the wicket-keeping role.
With the T20I series behind them, Pakistan will be eager to bounce back and finish the tour on a high. The three-match series kicks off on March 29 in Napier, followed by the second match on April 2 in Hamilton, and the final game on April 5 in Mount Maunganui.
Squad: Mohammad Rizwan (c)(wk), Salman Ali Agha (vc), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Akif Javed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Imam-ul-Haq, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Wasim Jnr., Mohammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Sufiyan Muqeem, Tayyab Tahir, Haris Rauf, and Usman Khan.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.