Babar explains exclusion of Mohammad Haris, Aamir Jamal for Ireland, England T20Is

Lahore: Babar Azam, Pakistan's white-ball team captain, provided insights into the selection committee's choice to omit wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Haris and bowling all-rounder Aamir Jamal from the upcoming T20I series against Ireland and England.

Babar clarified that Haris was left out of the squad due to the surplus of options in the top order. Despite being given opportunities post the T20 World Cup, Haris struggled to leave a mark during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season nine, resulting in his exclusion.

Speaking to the media before the team's departure to Ireland on Monday, Babar stated, "With me, Rizwan, Saim, and Fakhar occupying spots in the top order, there were limited opportunities available for Haris."

Regarding Aamir Jamal, Babar stressed that while he excels in Test cricket, his skills are not yet honed for T20 cricket. Babar expressed confidence in Jamal's abilities but emphasized the need for more time and matches to adapt to the shorter format.

In an unrelated development, test cricketer Ahmed Shehzad levied serious allegations against Muhammad Haris, accusing him of orchestrating a campaign to reclaim his spot in the national side. Shehzad criticized Haris's performance in domestic cricket and PSL season nine, questioning his eligibility for selection.

It's noteworthy that Mohammad Haris was not included in the squad announced for the forthcoming series against Ireland and England.

Pakistan Squad for Ireland & England Tour:

Babar Azam (c), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayyub, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Usman Khan

Schedule of Matches:

10 May – vs Ireland, 1st T20I, Dublin

12 May – vs Ireland, 2nd T20, Dublin

14 May – vs Ireland, 3rd T20I, Dublin

22 May – vs England, 1st T20I, Leeds

25 May – vs England, 2nd T20I, Birmingham

28 May – vs England 3rd T20I, Cardiff

30 May – vs England, 4th T20I, The Oval