The Pakistan cricket team management has made key adjustments to its One Day International (ODI) squad, retaining fast bowler Haris Rauf and wicketkeeper-batsman Usman Khan for the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand. The decision was made following the completion of the T20 series, with both players initially selected only for the shorter format.
As part of the squad reshuffle, eight T20 players are set to return home, while the remaining five have joined the ODI squad in Napier, where the series is set to commence on March 29.
Pakistan Squad Reshuffle: Key Changes Ahead of ODIs
Following the conclusion of the T20 series against New Zealand, the Pakistan cricket team and coaching staff traveled from Wellington to Napier in preparation for the ODI series.
In a strategic move, the Pakistan team management decided to retain Haris Rauf and Usman Khan in the ODI squad. Previously, both players were only part of the T20 lineup, but their inclusion in the 50-over format signals the management’s confidence in their form and capabilities.
Meanwhile, eight players from the T20 squad have been instructed to return to Pakistan via Dubai, making way for a fresh ODI squad for the upcoming matches.
Players Joining the ODI Squad in Napier
Several players who were part of the T20 squad have transitioned into the ODI team and will remain in Napier. These include:
Salman Ali Agha
Haris Rauf
Khushdil Shah
Irfan Khan Niazi
Abrar Ahmed
Sufyan Muqim
Muhammad Ali
Usman Khan
Additionally, nine players who were already part of the Pakistan ODI squad, including captain Muhammad Rizwan and star batter Babar Azam, were already stationed in Napier, awaiting the arrival of their teammates.
T20 Players Returning Home
As part of the squad adjustments, eight players from the T20 squad will be heading back to Pakistan. These players include:
Shadab Khan
Shaheen Afridi
Umair Bin Yousuf
Hassan Nawaz
Muhammad Haris
Abbas Afridi
Abdul Samad
Jehandad Khan
Their departure marks the end of Pakistan’s T20 series commitments, allowing the team to shift focus to the ODI format as they prepare for the highly anticipated three-match series against New Zealand.
Pakistan vs New Zealand ODI Series: What to Expect?
With the ODI series set to begin on March 29, Pakistan will be looking to bounce back and fine-tune their squad ahead of major international tournaments. The inclusion of Haris Rauf will provide extra firepower in the fast-bowling department, while Usman Khan’s batting skills will add depth to the middle order.
Pakistan’s ODI squad now features a mix of experienced stars and promising youngsters, aiming to put up a strong fight against New Zealand on their home turf.
Pakistan vs New Zealand ODI Series Schedule:
March 29 – 1st ODI
April 1 – 2nd ODI
April 4 – 3rd ODI
With the squad now finalized, all eyes will be on Pakistan’s performance as they take on a strong New Zealand side in what promises to be an exciting ODI series.
Pakistan’s ODI Hopes in New Zealand
The inclusion of Haris Rauf and Usman Khan reflects Pakistan’s strategic approach to strengthening their ODI squad, while the departure of key T20 players allows for a fresh, focused unit for the upcoming matches.
With stars like Babar Azam, Muhammad Rizwan, and Haris Rauf leading the charge, Pakistan’s ODI squad is expected to put up a tough fight against the Kiwis.
