Shadab Khan, the vice-captain of Pakistan’s white-ball sides, is gearing up to mark his return to the national side in the upcoming three-One-Day International series against the West Indies in Multan.
The all-rounder began his preparations for what is an all-important assignment, as the three matches are part of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League, on Thursday with the beginning of a three-day camp in Lahore.
Shadab last turned out for Pakistan in a T20I series against the West Indies in Karachi in December. Pakistan brushed aside the tourists comfortably with a 3-0 win and Shadab played a crucial role in helping the hosts achieve the scoreline.
The 23-year-old was the player of the match in the second T20I following his all-round efforts that included a quickfire 28 not out off 12 at the back of a four and three sixes and his economical returns of none for 22 in four overs.
Shadab, who recently turned out for Yorkshire in the ongoing Vitality blast and arrived in Pakistan earlier in the day, said: “I am very delighted to be back in the side and be amongst my friends as I had played the last for Pakistan in December.
“It is a different feeling altogether to play for your country, which makes coming back to this dressing room even more exciting.”
Pakistan are currently placed ninth in the Super League rankings with 60 points – one place above the West Indies – and a series win – whether 2-1 or 3-0 – will see them jump to the third spot.
Shadab, who had to be withdrawn from the three ODIs and one-off T20I against Australia in Lahore earlier in the year because of an injury, has his eyes set on the 8, 10 and 12 June matches, and is eager to make an impact.
He said: “The upcoming series is quite significant for me as I have not played any international and much domestic cricket recently, and I am making a return after injury. Another reason which makes this series important is that we are playing it in our country and in Multan.”
“I am looking forward to doing well for my team as these three ODIs are very important because of the Super League points. I am sure fans will get to see a good series and we will continue the Australia series momentum.”
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