Pakistan leaves out Mohammad Amir from World Cup squad

Pakistan has left out experienced pacer Mohammad Amir from its 15-member provisional World Cup squad while including batsman Abid Ali.

Abid Ali and Mohammad Hasnain have been selected after they cleared their fitness tests at the National Cricket Academy on Thursday morning. (REPRESENTATIVE IMAGE)

Pakistan on Thursday left out experienced but out-of-form pacer Mohammad Amir from its 15-member World Cup squad while including batsman Abid Ali in the line-up.

Chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq, announcing the World Cup squad and two reserve players, said the XI from the 2017 Champions Trophy had been retained in the selection process.

“We are hopeful and confident that Pakistan will give a good account of itself in the World Cup,” Inzamam said.

The selectors, while not showing faith with left-armer Amir who has taken just five wickets in his last 14 ODIs since the Champions Trophy two years back, reposed confidence in seniors Shoaib Malik and Mohammad Hafeez.

Pakistan name squad for ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2019.#WeHaveWeWill
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— PCB Official (@TheRealPCB) April 18, 2019

 

Inzamam said that Hafeez’s final inclusion in World Cup was subject to him being 100 per cent fit before the tournament as he is still recovering from a thumb injury.

“Doctors have advised him not to bowl or bat now but when his rehab is over he will be back in action in two weeks time,” he added.

Chief Selector @Inzamam08 announcing Pakistan team for England tour and @cricketworldcup 2019.
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— PCB Official (@TheRealPCB) April 18, 2019

 

Inzamam said hard-hitting batsman Asif Ali and Amir were in the reserves for the one-day series against England and the side matches before the World Cup.