After reappointing Babar Azam as white-ball captain, the Pakistan Cricket Board has made debatable selections for the five-match series against New Zealand. Fast bowler Mohammad Amir and left-arm spinner Imad Wasim, who both recently reversed their decisions to retire from international cricket, have been recalled to the squad. The series, beginning on April 18, will see three matches being played in Rawalpindi and two in Lahore.
Amir was found guilty of spot-fixing and served a brief jail sentence in England. He retired from international cricket because of his disagreements with former coaches Waqar Younis and Misbah ul Haq.
Allrounder Imad Wasim, who retired from international cricket in November 2023, changed his decision after being convinced by PCB and selectors following a successful PSL season in which his team won the PSL title.
Former Pakistan player Mohammad Hafeez reacted strongly to the developments, tweeting “RIP Domestic Cricket” following the announcement.
Mohammad Yousuf, Abdul Razzaq, Asad Shafiq, Wahab Riaz, and Bilal Afzal, who comprised the selection committee, informed the media that players who showed consistent performance have been selected.
“I am confident that both players will continue improving and work tirelessly to demonstrate they merit the selectors’ and captain’s faith in them.” stated Yousuf.
The selection committee also selected three uncapped players – batter Usman Khan and Irfan Khan Niazi, and spinner Abrar Ahmed.
Wahab supported Amir’s selection despite the fact that Amir’s involvement in the 2010 spot-fixing scandal has recently drawn ire from former Test captain Ramiz Raja.
“Ramiz Raja’s remarks were overly critical and inappropriate. Even our religion advocates the need to grant a second chance, including to those convicted of wrongdoing.” said Riaz.
Wahab also said that Amir had been recalled from retirement because he had been bowling well in leagues, and secondly, the selectors wanted to manage the workload for all pace bowlers.
“The decision to select Imad and Amir was straightforward given their availability and Haris Rauf’s injury and Mohammad Nawaz’s poor form. Both possess proven match-winning abilities and can bolster the team’s goals through strong, consistent performances.” added Riaz.