Pakistan’s cricket team has received a significant boost of confidence ahead of the Asia Cup 2023, as they now hold the top spot in the ODI rankings. The team’s impressive performance has propelled them past Australia, with Pakistan holding a rating of 118 compared to Australia’s rating of 118 but with fewer points. India follows closely behind in third place with a rating of 113.
With their newfound top-ranking status, Pakistan’s cricket team announced its squad for the highly anticipated Asia Cup 2023. The initial 17-member squad featured key players such as Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Haris Rauf, and more. Later, Saud Shakeel was added as the 18th member of the squad, providing further depth to the middle-order batting lineup. Additionally, Tayyab Tahir has been designated as the traveling reserve for the squad.
Skipper Babar Azam expressed confidence in the team’s preparation and performance, highlighting the inclusion of Saud Shakeel due to his proficiency in playing spin. After their victory in the third ODI against Afghanistan, Azam emphasized the team’s readiness for the challenges ahead in the Asia Cup.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman, Zaka Ashraf, praised the team’s dedication and unity in achieving the number 1 ODI rank. Ashraf affirmed the team’s commitment to maintaining their position and excelling across all formats of the game, with the upcoming Asia Cup and World Cup as crucial milestones.
The Pakistan cricket team is scheduled to face Nepal in the Asia Cup 2023 opener on August 30th at Multan Stadium. One of the most eagerly awaited matches of the tournament, the India vs. Pakistan clash, is set for September 2nd at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy, Sri Lanka.
Pakistan Squad for Asia Cup 2023:
Babar Azam (c), Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Haris, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Faheem Ashraf, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Saud Shakeel.
Traveling Reserve: Tayyab Tahir
