Pakistan’s star all-rounder Imad Wasim will replace young and vibrant middle-order batsman Azam Khan in the high-voltage T20 clash against India. And New York prepares for cricket’s most intense rivalry today.
These highly required changes came after Azam was dismissed for nothing in the game against the US. He had failed to impress in previous appearances for the national T20I side.
The 25-year-old cricketer has received heavy criticism for both his on-field performance and his physical fitness levels. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s head coach, Gary Kirsten, stated on Sunday that Imad was fit and will play in New York.
Imad Wasim Set to Return Against India
Imad has been not playing since the T20I series against England last month. But he is expected to play against his bitter enemies.
“Imad Wasim will be available for the match against India,” Kirsten revealed during a news conference. “We will make a comeback.”
According to the latest updates, Pakistan has confirmed its minus-Azam playing XI for the India encounter. It would consist of four fast bowlers, two all-rounders, and a spinner.
Pakistan’s Finalized Team Against India
Pakistan’s playing team comprises skipper Babar Azam and wicketkeeper-batsman Muhammad Rizwan. Plus, batsman Usman Khan, left-handed batter Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Imad, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Muhammad Amir, and Naseem Shah.
The sources further exposed that skipper Babar and coach Kirsten have “lost trust in Azam because he was not allowed to play a single ball during net practice.”
According to accounts, Azam stood alone as the practice took place. He made his international debut three years ago in July 2021. He’s the son of the famous wicket-keeper Moin Khan, who made an impact on the national team in T20I cricket. He featured in 14 innings for Pakistan but scored only 88 runs.
While Imad for Azam looks like a simple decision. But it’s important to recall why Azam was chosen. His T20 strike rate of 148 is outstanding for a country that lacks quick scorers.
Also Read: Waqar Younis Blasts Pakistan Fielding After Overthrows & Extras in Super Over | T20 WC
Imam-ul-Huq Defends Azam Khan
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A day earlier, Imam defended Azam in the face of social media criticism. He claimed that a cricketer is unable to play effectively in contests due to such trolling.
Imam further spoke out on Azam’s poor performance. He stated that one could not play six games in a row without doing well. While social media warriors immediately slammed it.
Cricket fans were disappointed with the Green Shirts’ performance and the team’s selection after a recent match. This match was against the United States. After the match, supporters expressed their frustration with the result, particularly Azam’s pick.
“We have been really disappointed. Azam Khan has no place on the squad, yet they still include him. “He doesn’t know fielding, and he got out on the first ball,” one of the onlookers commented.
With a 1,000-run cut-off, Azam has the second-best strike rate among Pakistanis in the PSL, at 147. Imad, on the other hand, averages 127 while batting at five and six. That is Azam’s favored position. His T20 strike rate is identical, but it rises to 135 in T20Is. He now has a PSL score of 139.
Also Read: Bangladesh Wins Over Sri Lanka By Two Wickets in Thrilling T20 WC Clash
About the Author
Zartash Zulfiqar is a passionate cricket writer whose love for cricket shines through in every word. From match analyses to player profiles, she delivers insightful commentary that resonates with fans worldwide. Stay tuned for the latest from the world of cricket, brought to you by Zartash.
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