Hafeez last played ODI cricket in August 2016

Image courtesy of: Zimbio

Just hours after Pakistan were whitewashed 3-0 in their Test series against Australia, all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez received a late call-up to the ODI squad for the upcoming five-match series.

Hafeez had initially been overlooked due to his mediocre performance on the domestic circuit, but following a request from the team management and ODI captain Azhar Ali, the 36-year-old has been added to the squad.

After being asked to provide a top-order batsman who is also capable of bowling, chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq decided that Hafeez best fit the bill.

“The selection committee headed by Inzamam-ul-Haq today received a request from Pakistan team management comprising coach Mickey Arthur and captain Azhar Ali for sending Mohammad Hafeez to Australia for the ODI series,” a Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) release said. “The selection committee has decided to accept the request of the team management and chairman of the PCB has approved the same. Hafeez will join the team shortly as the 16th member in Australia.”