Former captain Inzamam ul Haq has backed the calls for Shoaib Malik’s inclusion in the Pakistan squad for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia after the Men in Green’s middle-order let them down in the recently concluded Asia Cup 2022 in the UAE.
He further suggested that Shan Masood and Sharjeel Khan should be added to Pakistan's squad for the T20 World Cup 2022 in order to strengthen the middle order, which failed to deliver in their last two Asia Cup 2022 games against the current champions Sri Lanka.
Inzamam ul Haq has said that Shoaib Malik should be in Pakistan’s team to strengthen the middle order which crumbled against Sri Lanka in Asia Cup.
As reported by The Indian Express, Inzamam ul Haq told reporters in Pakistan: “I think Shan Masood and Sharjeel (Khan) and Shoaib Malik should be in the team, especially in the middle order.”
The former chief selector also reacted to Malik’s allegations of "liking and disliking culture" in the Pakistan team after he was dropped from the team for the Asia Cup 2022.
Speaking on the same, Inzamam said, “Such allegations have been there in the past and will continue in the future as well. We must understand that selection is not a one-man decision; there is a team of selectors, coach, and captain who take a call (on selection). I can’t comment on friendships, but yes like-dislikes are everywhere.”
He also backed the out-of-form Pakistan captain Babar Azam to come back strong ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022, saying his form should not be a concern.
Inzamam said, “Yes, it has been after a long time since Babar Azam did not score in a tournament. He’s a big player and can get back his form but the biggest concern for Pakistan should be the middle order which did not work for the team.”
He concluded, “The middle order needs to be changed. Australia (as world cup host) will be a different ball game and selectors must take this into consideration when they pick the team for the T20 World Cup.”
