Pakistan announces squad for T20I series against New Zealand

Pakistan has announced its 17-player squad for the upcoming five-T20I series against New Zealand, featuring some exciting new additions alongside experienced campaigners.

Two uncapped players, Muhammad Irfan Khan and Usman Khan, have caught the selectors' attention with their standout performances in the recent HBL Pakistan Super League. Irfan Khan, representing Karachi Kings, was named the Emerging Player and Best Fielder of the tournament after scoring 171 runs at a strike-rate of 140.16. The 21-year-old has already showcased his talent in 34 T20 matches, accumulating 499 runs at a strike-rate of 135.96. Usman Khan, hailing from Multan Sultans, impressed with two centuries and two half-centuries in the previous event, including a record-breaking 36-ball century in HBL PSL 8. With 1,207 runs in 36 T20 appearances at a strike-rate of 146.12, Usman adds firepower to the squad.

Another notable inclusion is wrist spinner Abrar Ahmed, who returns to the squad after missing out due to fitness concerns earlier this year. He joins Usama Mir as the second wrist spinner in the team. The experienced duo of all-rounder Imad Wasim and fast bowler Mohammad Amir, who recently came out of retirement, bring valuable skills and depth to the squad. Imad has featured in 66 T20Is, scoring 486 runs and claiming 65 wickets, while Amir, with 59 wickets in 50 T20Is, adds a potent bowling option.

The series, scheduled to take place in Rawalpindi and Lahore from 18-27 April, promises to be an exciting contest as Pakistan looks to test its new talents against a strong New Zealand side.