Pakistan announce 18-member squad ahead of T20 World Cup 2024, Haris Rauf returns as star players sidelined

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced their squad for the T20I series against Ireland and England. Notably, Pakistan will first play T20I series against Ireland from May 10 to May 14 then follow it up with another series against England, which is scheduled to be played from May 22 to May 30. This will be Pakistan's dress rehearsal for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. PCB are yet to announce their squad for the T20 World Cup 2024 which is set to start from June 2.  The final 15 will be chosen after their first T20I against England on May 22 to meet the ICC's deadline of May 24.

The selectors have made some changes to the initial squad that faced New Zealand.  Fast bowler Haris Rauf and all-rounders Hasan Ali and Salman Ali Agha have been called up, while wrist spinner Usama Mir and fast bowler Zaman Khan have missed out on this stage.

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Pakistan's squad for series against England and Ireland

Babar Azam (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan

Several key players are rejoining the Pakistan T20 World Cup squad after overcoming injuries and niggles. Haris Rauf and Azam Khan, sidelined previously, are back in contention. Middle-order batsman Mohammad Irfan and wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan, who were rested, are also deemed fit. Their recoveries provide a significant boost to the team's depth.

Salman Ali Agha strengthens Pakistan's all-rounder options. His ability to contribute with both aggressive batting and off-spin bowling adds versatility to the squad, joining established all-rounders like Abrar Ahmed, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, and Shadab Khan.

Hasan Ali's experience brings stability to the bowling attack. With over 50 T20I appearances and a history of success in major tournaments, he brings a proven track record. His recent wicket-taking form in the Pakistan Super League and ongoing stint with Warwickshire in the County Championship further solidified his selection.

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Notably, the 18-member Pakistan's squad will leave for Dublin on 7 May following a three-day training camp in Lahore from 4-6 May.

Schedule for Pakistan vs Ireland's T20I series

Schedule for Pakistan vs England's T20I series

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