Pakistan team management on Thursday announced the 15-member squad for the first T20 International against New Zealand in Auckland.
Shadab Khan will lead the side in the absence of regular skipper Babar Azam. The 22-year-old will captain Pakistan for the first time. Previously, he has led Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
Former captain Sarfraz Ahmed and Mohammad Rizwan both have been included in the squad. Speedster Musa Khan and leg-spinner Usman Qadir could not make it to the final 15 but will be available if neede.
“Leading Pakistan side is an honour for me,” said Shadab. “We will miss Babar Azam but this provides a good opportunity for youngsters to shine in the series. We are eager to play in front of the crowds once again.
Squad
Shadab Khan (c), Abdullah Shafique, Faheem Ashraf, Haider Ali, Haris Rauf, Hussain Talat, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Hafeez, Mohammad Hasnain, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Sarfaraz Ahmed (wk), Shaheen Shah Afridi, Wahab Riaz.
