The upcoming three-match T20I series between Pakistan and Afghanistan presents a golden opportunity for young and exciting domestic cricketers to showcase their talent at the highest level of cricket. The series, which is set to take place in the United Arab Emirates, will feature several uncapped players, who have been selected based on their impressive performances in the recently concluded Pakistan Super League 8.
Pakistan cricket selectors have included four uncapped players in Ihsanullah, Saim Ayub, Tayyab Tahir, and Zaman Khan, while Abdullah Shafique, Azam Khan, Faheem Ashraf, and Imad Wasim have been recalled to the squad. All eyes will be on these players as they attempt to push their boundaries and make a name for themselves in international cricket.
All-rounder Shadab Khan, who will captain the side in the absence of Babar Azam, believes that Pakistan has what it takes to outshine Afghanistan. Speaking about the upcoming series, Shadab said, “I am grateful to the Almighty for this opportunity. Representing your country is an honour for any cricketer and to lead it is even a bigger honour so I am very excited and eager to take this role.”
He also congratulated the young players selected for the series, stating that they bring a different spark and energy to the team. He further added, “Playing for your country demands the best from everyone, and that cannot be achieved unless you continue to push your boundaries and challenge yourself. You need a certain level of skillset to thrive at this level.”
Shadab also spoke highly of the young batsmen in the team, stating that Abdullah Shafique and Saim Ayub are reliable batters who can carry the top-order, while Tayyab Tahir and Azam Khan are solid batters who can turn the game around with their explosive batting. He also praised the return of Imad Wasim and Faheem Ashraf, who he believes provide a good balance to the team as solid all-rounders.
The series against Afghanistan will be a good test for the young players, who will be facing the pressure of international cricket for the first time. Shadab believes that this experience will hold them in good stead as their careers progress, stating, “You need to be more courageous and need to have nerves of steel to stand out in international cricket, and this tour will help them attain that.”
Pakistan and Afghanistan have played three T20Is and four One-Day Internationals in the past, with Pakistan emerging victorious every time. The upcoming T20I series will be the first time the two sides meet in a bilateral series. The first match is scheduled to take place on 24 March at Sharjah.
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