Babar Azam, Afridi In, Rizwan Left Out of Pakistan T20 World Cup Preliminary Squad

Pakistan's preliminary T20 World Cup squad announced: Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi included, but Mohammad Rizwan surprisingly left out. Learn more.

Pakistan's T20 World Cup preliminary squad features prominent names like former captain Babar Azam and pace bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi. However, the notable exclusion of another former captain and wicketkeeper, Mohammad Rizwan, has created surprise. This 20-player list was submitted to the ICC ahead of the January 7 deadline, with head coach Mike Hesson expected to finalize the 15-player team soon.

Afridi's inclusion is notable given his recent knee injury, with expectations he will recover within two weeks. Babar Azam's good form in the Big Bash League, including two fifties, has reportedly influenced selectors. The decision to omit Rizwan appears linked to favoring Usman Khan as the primary wicketkeeper, according to sources.

The selection process also sees five spinners named in the squad, including Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, and Abrar Ahmed. The tournament is scheduled to take place in India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8, with Pakistan set to play all matches in Sri Lanka.

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