Shoaib Malik replaces Sohaib Maqsood in world cup squad

LAHORE: Veteran cricketer Shoaib Malik returned to the national team after Sohaib Maqsood was ruled out of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup due to an injury.

“Sohaib is devastated to miss out on the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup as he had worked hard for this event and was in sparkling form. We feel for him but injuries are part and parcel of the sport. I am sure after undergoing rehabilitation, he’ll fully recover to be available for future assignments,” Chief Selector Muhammad Wasim was quoted in a statement released by the Pakistan Cricket Board.

Wasim shared that the selectors agreed on adding Shoaib as a replacement after holding “discussions” with the team management.

“I am sure Shoaib’s experience will be handy for the entire squad,” said the chief selector.

The PCB shared that Sohaib had undergone MRI scans for the lower back on Thursday after picking up the injury during October 6 match against Northern. He had also missed October 7 match against Central Punjab.

Sarfaraz, Haider, Fakhar included in world cup squad

Shoaib is the fourth change made in the squad for the T20 World Cup.

A day earlier, PCB announced that former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed, Haider Ali and Fakhar Azam have returned to the national squad for the T20 World Cup due to their stellar performance in the National T20 Cup.

“After reviewing player performances in the highly competitive National T20 and consultation with the team management, we have decided to include Haider Ali, Fakhar Zaman and Sarfaraz Ahmed in the squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021,” PCB Chief Selector Muhammad Wasim was quoted in the statement.

Sarfaraz and Haider have replaced Azam Khan and Mohammad Hasnain respectively, while Fakhar Zaman, who was originally named as a travel reserve, has swapped places with Khushdil Shah.

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021, will be held in the United Arab Emirates from October 17 to November 14.

Pakistan are in Group 2 and will open its campaign against India on October 24 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.