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n a significant development for Pakistan’s ODI World Cup campaign, Hasan Ali has been called up to replace the injured Naseem Shah, who is expected to be sidelined for an extended period due to a shoulder injury. This alteration to the squad comes as Pakistan makes last-minute adjustments to address the bowling woes in their lineup. Alongside Hasan Ali, legspinner Usama Mir has also received a call-up to bolster the team’s spin-bowling options.
I decided to leave Pakistan cricket technical committee. I served as honorary member. I would like to thank Zaka Ashraf sb for giving me this opportunity. I m always available whenever Zaka Ashraf sb need my honest suggestions for Pakistan cricket. My best wishes for Pakistan…
— Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) September 21, 2023
Crucial Updates: Naseem Shah’s Injury, Hasan Ali’s Inclusion, and Pakistan’s World Cup Hopes
Chief Selector Inzamam-ul-Haq clarified the situation, revealing that Naseem Shah’s injury, sustained during the Asia Cup, would keep him out not only of the World Cup but also for an extended period afterward. Naseem was a crucial part of Pakistan’s fast-bowling lineup, making his absence a significant setback.
Hasan Ali’s inclusion aims to fill the void left by Naseem Shah. Hasan is an experienced player known for his outstanding performances in major international events for Pakistan. His ability to swing the ball effectively, both new and old, adds value to the team. Moreover, his presence injects fresh energy into the squad.
Strategic Squad Update: Usama Mir Adds Leg-Spin Flavor to Pakistan’s Bowling Lineup
Usama Mir’s inclusion brings a leg-spinning element to Pakistan’s bowling attack. Although he made his ODI debut against New Zealand earlier this year and wasn’t in the initial Asia Cup squad, his addition complements Pakistan’s pace attack of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Wasim, enhancing strategic diversity.
While the squad saw changes, the spin-bowling allrounder Mohammad Nawaz maintains his spot. Unfortunately, Faheem Ashraf didn’t make it to the World Cup roster.
This announcement comes after a period of speculation and uncertainty regarding Pakistan’s World Cup squad. The PCB took time to assess their Asia Cup performance, where they ended at the bottom of the Super Four group. Additionally, the board awaited a second opinion on Naseem’s injury, which confirmed a prolonged absence.
Pakistan’s World Cup preparations have faced challenges, including injuries to key players like Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf, along with disruptions from trips between Pakistan and Sri Lanka and disappointing losses to India and Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup.
Their World Cup journey kicks off with warm-up matches against New Zealand on September 29 and Australia on October 3. The first official tournament match is set against Netherlands on October 6 in Hyderabad.
To strengthen the team’s bowling resources after Naseem Shah’s injury, Hasan Ali and Usama Mir have been added to Pakistan’s ODI World Cup squad. These changes come amid the backdrop of challenges and uncertainties in Pakistan’s World Cup preparations.
Also read:
Asia Cup 2023 Roundup: Let’s Reflect on Pakistan’s performance and rally for Solutions!
