Basit Ali Accuses Pakistan of 'Backdoor Entries' in Squad Selection for New Zealand Tour
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Synopsis
Former cricketer Basit Ali has strongly criticized Pakistan's team selection for the upcoming series against New Zealand, alleging favoritism and unjust exclusions. He claims that deserving players have been sidelined while others secured their spots through backdoor channels.
Key Takeaways
- Basit Ali criticizes PCB for squad selection.
- Alleges favoritism and backdoor entries.
- Salman Ali Agha named new T20I captain.
- Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Hasnain notably excluded.
- Controversy likely to persist ahead of New Zealand tour.
New Delhi, March 4 (NationPress) Former cricketer Basit Ali has vehemently condemned the selection of Pakistan’s team for the forthcoming white-ball series against New Zealand, alleging favouritism and unfair exclusions. He asserted that deserving players have been overlooked while others have obtained their spots through backdoor channels.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has recently revealed significant modifications to the T20I squad, with Salman Ali Agha stepping in as captain, replacing Mohammad Rizwan. All-rounder Shadab Khan, who has been reinstated to the side, will serve as vice-captain. Nonetheless, Rizwan remains the ODI captain, while Babar Azam, although omitted from the T20I squad, continues to be part of the one-day lineup. The selectors also opted to keep several players who performed poorly during the ICC Champions Trophy.
Noteworthy exclusions include Saud Shakeel, who scored a pivotal 64 runs against India in Pakistan’s last match, and fast bowler Mohammad Hasnain, who did not participate in any Champions Trophy game yet was still excluded from the squad.
During his show, Basit Ali voiced his disappointment regarding these choices. "How many runs did Saud make against India? 64? Yet, he is out of the team," he questioned, expressing confusion over his exclusion.
He also criticized Hasnain’s absence, labeling it an injustice. "Why is Mohammad Hasnain, who is your next big fast bowler, not in the squad? He has demonstrated his talent, yet he is overlooked in both formats. What kind of injustice is this to a young, gifted player?"
Basit further claimed that selection was swayed by reputation rather than merit. "Certain players have established favorable images for themselves, and that’s why they are in the squad. These entries are all through the back door," he asserted.
Pakistan is scheduled to play five T20Is and three ODIs in New Zealand, commencing on March 16. Nevertheless, with escalating concerns regarding selection practices, the controversy surrounding the squad is expected to continue.
