Junaid has not represented Pakistan since June 2015

Image courtesy of: Zimbio

Left-arm seamer Junaid Khan will replace compatriot Mohammad Irfan in Pakistan’s ODI squad for the upcoming five-match series against Australia.

Irfan, who is also a left-arm pace bowler, is expected to miss anywhere from a few games to the entire series after he flew back home following the death of his mother.

Junaid was not named in the original 15-man squad on December 30 and is the second player to be called up to the side after the late addition of all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez.

“Following Irfan’s return to Pakistan due to his mother’s death, the chief selector Inzamam ul Haq after consulting the team management has named fast bowler Junaid as Irfan’s replacement,” a Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) release said.

The 27-year-old will be looking to make his presence felt Down Under, especially as he has not played international cricket since June 2015. Furthermore, this call-up also presents him with an opportunity to cement his place in the team.

The ODI series between Pakistan and Australia begins on January 13 in Brisbane.