Legendary Pakistani cricketer Waqar Younis has revealed his picks for Pakistan’s squad in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. The former pacer prioritized experience over fresh faces, emphasizing a strong batting line-up and a spin-heavy bowling attack.
The World Cup will be held in the West Indies and the United States, starting on June 1st. The official team announcement deadline is fast approaching on May 1. Younis, however, shared his thoughts while commentating on the ongoing T20I series between Pakistan and New Zealand.
A top-heavy Pakistan side for Younis
Waqar Younis, who is the second-highest wicket-taker (789 wickets) in Pakistan’s illustrious history, went out with a top-heavy squad. His team features a dependable top order with Babar Azam, youngster Saim Ayub, and Fakhar Zaman. In the middle order, he includes Mohammad Rizwan and Usman Khan, showcasing his faith in their abilities. Another option in Azam Khan finds a spot as well despite the wicket-keeper’s injury concerns as well.
“This is what I feel, if they are all fit, I think this is my squad with Babar Azam, Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman, three openers. Then you got [Mohammad] Rizwan, Usman Khan, I think he needs to go to the World Cup. And then, of course, you have Azam Khan, if you’re going to have two wicketkeepers then he should be in the side as he is another match-winner,” Younis was quoted as saying by Geo Super.
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5 spin-bowling options in Younis’ 15
Notably, the former Pakistan captain included not one or two but five spin-bowling options. “Iftikhar [Ahmed], Shadab [Khan] definitely comes in the side automatically, Imad Wasim and Abrar [Ahmed]. I feel that you’d be needing a mystery spinner, that is why I have gone with him, then Usama Mir, I think Pakistan might need another spinner there in the West Indies and United States,” the 52-year-old added.
With the World Cup being held in the West Indies and the USA, Younis might want Pakistan to carry as many spin-bowling option as they can. These regions are known for slower pitches that tend to assist spinners.
Experiences pacers gets the nod
Younis’ picks prioritize experience over fresh faces like Abrar Afridi or Zaman Khan. This isn’t surprising, opting for the proven quartet of Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Amir and Haris Rauf (if fit) offers stability in high-pressure World Cup matches.
“And the four pacers, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Amir and Haris Rauf, if he is fit” Waqar concludes.
