The cricket world is abuzz with anticipation as teams gear up for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, set to be held across 10 venues in India from October 5 to November 19. Among the participating nations, Pakistan has unveiled its formidable lineup, announcing a 15-member team led by the prolific Babar Azam. The Pakistan ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 squad reflects a blend of experience and youthful exuberance, aiming to clinch the coveted trophy for the second time in the nation’s cricketing history.
Pakistan Squad Composition for ICC Cricket World Cup 2023
The announcement, made on September 22 by Chief Selector Inzamam-ul-Haq, revealed a squad that embodies consistency and confidence. Babar Azam, who has amassed heaps of runs in recent years, will don the captain’s hat, with Shadab Khan serving as the vice-captain. The leadership duo is expected to guide the team with strategic acumen and on-field charisma. Making the team more likely to win this World Cup by competing among the ICC World Cup Teams.
Complete List of Pakistan Squad for ICC Cricket World Cup 2023
Here is the complete Pakistan ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 squad:
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Babar Azam (Captain) | Batsman |
| Shadab Khan (VC) | All-rounder |
| Abdullah Shafique | Batsman |
| Fakhar Zaman | Batsman |
| Haris Rauf | Fast Bowler |
| Hasan Ali | Fast Bowler |
| Iftikhar Ahmed | All-rounder |
| Imam-ul-Haq | Batsman |
| Mohammad Nawaz | All-rounder |
| Mohammad Rizwan (WK) | Wicketkeeper |
| Mohammad Wasim Jr. | All-rounder |
| Salman Ali Agha | All-rounder |
| Saud Shakeel | Batsman |
| Shaheen Afridi | Fast Bowler |
| Usama Mir | Spinner |
Traveling Reserves and Backup
Accompanying the main squad are three traveling reserves – Mohammad Haris, Abrar Ahmed, and Zaman Khan. Mohammad Haris, who led the Pakistan ‘Shaheens’ to victory in the Emerging Asia Cup 2023, serves as the backup wicketkeeper, while Abrar Ahmed and Zaman Khan provide additional bowling options.
Haris Rauf’s Fitness
Another key development is the fitness of Haris Rauf. The fast bowler had an injury scare during the Asia Cup but is now fit and available for selection. His return bolsters Pakistan’s pace bowling options.
Naseem Shah’s Injury
One of the significant developments surrounding the Pakistan ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 squad is the unfortunate injury to fast bowler Naseem Shah. Sustaining a shoulder injury during the Asia Cup 2023 in a match against India, Shah has been ruled out of the World Cup. He is expected to undergo surgery and recover in three to four months. In his place, Hasan Ali, who last played an ODI for Pakistan in June 2022, has been named as his replacement. The inclusion of Hasan Ali adds depth to the pace attack, complementing the express speeds of Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf.
Team’s Performance
As Pakistan enters the World Cup, they do so as the number one ranked side in ODIs, underlining their credentials as one of the tournament favorites. The team boasts the best win/loss ratio of 2.400 in this World Cup cycle, showcasing their dominance in the format. And this time they have set their eyes on the ICC Cricket World Cup Trophy, and are looking forward to take it home.
Warm-up Matches
Before the official start of the tournament, Pakistan will engage in two warm-up matches. They are scheduled to face New Zealand on 29 September and Australia on 3 October. These matches will serve as crucial preparation for the team and will take place in the ICC World Cup Venues, which are being prepared for the matches.
Pakistan’s first match in the World Cup is set to be a thrilling encounter against the Netherlands on 6 October. It will be a high-stakes game as both teams aim to start their campaigns on a winning note.
Historical Context and National Hopes
The announcement of the Pakistan ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 squad has rekindled memories of the nation’s triumphant 1992 campaign and subsequent appearances in the finals and semi-finals. The current squad, a harmonious blend of seasoned campaigners and emerging talents, carries the hopes of a cricket-passionate nation, aspiring to replicate the glory of yesteryears.
As the squad gears up for the challenges ahead, the emphasis on continuity, strategic leadership, and balanced team composition form the cornerstone of their World Cup aspirations. The return of key players, the introduction of fresh faces, and the collective resolve to overcome adversities underscore the team’s preparedness for the grand cricketing spectacle.
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Wrapping It Up!
In conclusion, the unveiling of the Pakistan ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 squad marks a significant milestone in the country’s cricketing journey. With a blend of experience, youth, and a rich legacy, the team is poised to make a formidable impact on the world stage, aiming to bring the coveted trophy back to Pakistan. The cricketing fraternity and fans worldwide eagerly await the thrilling encounters and memorable moments that the tournament promises to deliver.
