Mohammad Yousuf: “We hold great optimism and belief in their potential to become key impact players”
Image taken by: Bimal Mirwani
Pakistan batting coach Mohammad Yousuf believes big-hitting batsmen Usman Khan and Irfan Khan have what it takes to become “key impact players.”
Both players could make their international debuts for Pakistan after they were selected for the five-match T20I series against New Zealand.
Their call-ups stemmed from their outstanding performances in the 2024 Pakistan Super League (PSL), where Usman finished as the second-highest run-scorer after making 430 runs in seven matches for the Multan Sultans, which included two centuries and two fifties, at an average of 107.50 and a strike-rate of 164.12.
As for Irfan, he accumulated 71 runs in nine games for the Karachi Kings at an average of 42.75 and a strike-rate of 140.16.
“On behalf of the selection committee, I extend heartfelt congratulations to Muhammad Irfan Khan and Usman Khan on their inclusion in the Pakistan men’s cricket team for the upcoming home series against New Zealand. Both players have undeniably earned their spots through a string of consistent, outstanding performances,” Yousuf, who is a member of the selection committee, was quoted as saying in a press release from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
“We hold great optimism and belief in their potential to become key impact players, yet recognise that this requires ongoing dedication and effort. I trust that both players will continue their upward trajectory, sparing no effort in proving themselves worthy of the selectors’ and captain’s trust and confidence.”
The T20I series between Pakistan and New Zealand will be held in Rawalpindi and Lahore from April 18 to 27.
Pakistan Squad for New Zealand T20I Series: Babar Azam (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Amir, Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usama Mir, Usman Khan, Zaman Khan
Non-travelling reserves: Haseebullah Khan, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Ali Agha
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