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ODI World Cup 2023: 3 players who can be included in Pakistan’s squad if Naseem Shah remains unfit
The number one-ranked ODI team, Pakistan are yet to announce their squad for the upcoming 2023 ODI World Cup. Naseem Shah has been one of the top players for them in recent times. But, during the recent Asia Cup, he got injured and due to his shoulder injury, he might reportedly struggle to get fit within time for the mega event. So, now, the Men in Green might look for some other players if Naseem remains unfit.
Here are the three players who can get a place in Pakistan’s squad for the ODI World Cup 2023 in place of injured Naseem Shah
Zaman Khan
Zaman Khan (Image Source: Twitter)
This 22-year-old pacer can be the player who can give Pakistan a solid option in place of Naseem Shah. When Naseem and Haris Rauf got ruled out of the Sri Lanka clash, he was one of the two bowlers who got a call-up. Zaman Khan also made his debut and played that match. He conceded just 39 runs in six overs.
In the last over of the game, he was asked to defend eight runs. Until, the fourth delivery Zaman was looking favourite to defend the total but on the last two deliveries, the Lankans scored six runs to win the game. However, he has played six T20Is already and taken four wickets.
Ihsanullah
Ihsanullah (Image Source: Twitter)
This 20-year-old pacer can be another player whom the Men in Green might look to fit in the squad if Naseem misses out. Ihsanullah hit the headlines for his raw pace and in 12 PSL innings, he has 22 wickets to his name. He has played one ODI so far which he went wicketless. But, in four T20Is, he has six wickets in his bag.
His 150km+ deliveries can be lethal for any opposition batters but, recently, Ihsanullah suffered an injury. That’s why he missed the opportunity in the Asia Cup. A few days back, a video went viral where he was seen bowling in nets. Hence, if he regains his full fitness, then he can be a good option to have for Babar Azam and his men.
Shahnawaz Dahani
Shahnawaz Dahani (Image Source: Twitter)
This 25-year-old pacer was one of the pacers who were called up as the backups for Naseem and Rauf in the Asia Cup 2023. Shahnawaz Dahani reached Sri Lanka on the matchday between Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
The Men in Green unfortunately lost the game and Dahani left the country along with his teammates without playing a single game. He has played two ODIs so far and taken just one wicket. In 11 T20Is, Dahani has eight wickets to his name. Hence, Pakistan can look to include him in the squad.