Reports revealed that star Pakistani spinner Shadab Khan will likely be replaced in the all-important World Cup 2023 clash against Australia.
Shadab Khan’s performance has been less than stellar since the Asia Cup 2023, and this has not gone unnoticed by cricketing experts and a significant portion of social media. The 25-year-old all-rounder is now reportedly facing exclusion from the team, primarily due to health-related concerns.
Usama Mir, who was the first Pakistani player to be affected by an infection just before the India match, has made a full recovery and has actively participated in training in Bengaluru.
Given the pitch conditions at Chinnaswamy Stadium, which tend to favor spinners, Usama Mir is a top contender for selection in the upcoming match. Reports suggest that he is poised to step in for vice-captain Shadab Khan.
It is pertinent to mention here that Pakistan has secured victories in two of their matches and one defeat, with Australia recently claiming their first win in the tournament against Sri Lanka. Prior to this victory, Australia had faced losses against India and South Africa. It’s worth noting that Pakistan also suffered a loss in their recent match against their arch-rivals, India.
Babar Azam and co will next be in action on October 20 (today), when Pakistan faces Australia at Bangalore.
Pakistan squad
Babar Azam (c), Shadab Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Wasim.
Australia squad
Pat Cummins (c), Steve Smith, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Sean Abbott, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitch Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa, Mitchell Starc.