In the recent press conference unveiling Pakistan's squad for the World Cup 2023, Chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq lightened the mood with a witty reply to a journalist's query. Amidst concerns over the Pakistani spinners' underwhelming performance in the Asia Cup 2023, Inzamam humorously quipped that they couldn't pick Kuldeep Yadav for their team.
"You have come up with some good stats on both bowlers but let me say that I cannot select Kuldeep Yadav... for me that's an issue as he is from another team," Inzamam was quoted as saying in the press conference.
Pakistan's spin arsenal, including Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, and Mohammad Nawaz, faced a tough time in the Asia Cup, with only Iftikhar Ahmed managing to make a mark by clinching three wickets against Sri Lanka in a Super 4 match. Consequently, speculation arose suggesting Abrar Ahmed might step in for Shadab. However, the final roster confirmed Shadab's place, with Abrar designated as a travelling reserve.
Expressing his confidence in the team's preparation for the World Cup, which is slated to run from October 5 to November 19, Inzamam voiced his trust in Shadab and Nawaz to rise to the occasion. His spirited and light-hearted demeanor during the presser brought a refreshing touch to the formal announcement, reiterating his belief in the chosen squad.
"We have selected Shadab and Nawaz because we wanted continuity. The World Cup squad is planned for years ahead, and cannot be changed abruptly. Shadab and Nawaz have been doing very well for Pakistan for the past two years. They have not been taking wickets in the middle and performing up to their own caliber but they have done so in the past and we have confidence in them," Inzamam added.
Pakistan World Cup squad: Babar Azam (c), Shadab Khan (vc), Fakhar Zaman, Imam Ul Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Mohammad Rizwan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Agha Salman, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Usama Mir, Mohammad Wasim Jr.
Traveling Reserves: Abrar Ahmed, Zaman Khan, Mohammad Haris
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