Not too long ago, Shadab Khan was considered a certainty in Pakistan’s World Cup squad, but a disappointing Asia Cup campaign has cast doubt on his inclusion in the showpiece event. Shadab, the vice-captain of the Pakistan cricket team, managed to pick up only three wickets as Pakistan crashed out of the Asia Cup during the Super 4 stage. This underwhelming performance has raised questions about his role in the upcoming World Cup.
The Asia Cup, a crucial tournament leading up to the World Cup, saw Pakistan struggle, and Shadab Khan was one of the players who failed to live up to expectations. Pakistan’s skipper, Babar Azam, expressed his disappointment with the performance of some senior players, and Shadab was among those under scrutiny.
One name that has emerged as a potential replacement for Shadab Khan is Abrar Ahmed. Abrar gained recognition during the Test series against England. This leg-spinner possesses the unique quality of being quicker through the air than Shadab, adding an element of mystery to his bowling. Despite his limited international experience, Abrar has already significantly impacted in the longer format, featuring in six Test matches and claiming 38 wickets. His rapid rise has impressed Chief Selector Inzamam-ul-Haq, who considers him a viable option for the World Cup squad.
While Shadab Khan may not be entirely dropped from the World Cup squad, reports suggest that he may lose his vice-captaincy position. Shaheen Shah Afridi, Pakistan’s young and promising fast bowler, is considered a potential replacement. Afridi’s impressive performance in the Asia Cup, where he led the bowling attack effectively, has earned him recognition as a potential vice-captain.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly considering administrative changes due to the disappointing Asia Cup performance. During the meeting, the PCB’s chief selector and skipper discussed the fitness issues and poor form of key players. A decision regarding Shadab Khan’s role in the team will likely be taken after a meeting with PCB Chairman Zaka Ashraf.
The magician Abrar Ahmed! The surprise package 🇵🇰🔥
— Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) September 18, 2023
World Cup 🇮🇳 mein jaadu 🪄 #AsiaCup2023 #CWC23 pic.twitter.com/5L4RsnweZq
Apart from Shadab Khan, the place of opening batter Fakhar Zaman is also in doubt due to his lacklustre performance in the Asia Cup, where he failed to score a single fifty. Additionally, Naseem Shah’s participation in the World Cup is uncertain, with Hasan Ali and Zaman Khan emerging as potential replacements. On a positive note, fast bowler Haris Rauf is expected to be fit for the World Cup.
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As Pakistan prepares for the upcoming World Cup, the uncertainty surrounding Shadab Khan’s role in the team has raised eyebrows. While he may not be entirely excluded from the squad, his vice-captaincy position is in jeopardy, with Shaheen Shah Afridi being considered a strong alternative.
