Post by : Maya Rahman

In a surprising move, Pakistan has announced that batter Hasan Nawaz will not be included in their squads for the forthcoming ODI and T20I matches scheduled for later this month. Instead, he will participate in the ongoing Quaid-e-Azam Trophy. His exclusion signifies a notable shift in team selection, especially considering his previous emergence as one of Pakistan’s most promising young talents.

The selectors have not designated a replacement for Nawaz in the ODI lineup; however, Fakhar Zaman will take his place in the T20I squad. This choice reflects a preference for experienced players as the national team gears up for a hectic month of international competition.

Nawaz first caught the spotlight with a match-winning T20I century against New Zealand at Eden Park earlier this year in March. The powerful right-handed batsman quickly became known as one of Pakistan’s most formidable middle-order hitters, particularly effective in the closing stages of innings.

His explosive potential warranted an extended run with the national team, despite facing challenges in consistent performance. Throughout his initial ten T20Is, he recorded five ducks, showcasing both inexperience and glimpses of outstanding potential.

Further enhancing his reputation, Nawaz had a remarkable run in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), leading Quetta Gladiators to the finals. He finished as the third-highest run-scorer with a striking strike rate exceeding 162. His ability to hit sixes effortlessly endeared him to fans and sparked comparisons with some of Pakistan’s finest strikers.

However, in recent months, Hasan Nawaz's performance has seen a decline. During the Asia Cup, he was substituted in later matches for Hussain Talat, who, while less aggressive, displayed more consistency. This change suggested a diminishing confidence from the team management regarding Nawaz's decision-making and temperament at the crease.

In ODI matches, he has so far played just four games, three of which were against the West Indies in August, boasting an impressive average of 56.33. Nonetheless, a careless dismissal against spinner George Linde raised concerns about his match awareness.

Moreover, his recent T20I performances have also been underwhelming. In his last eight outings, he reached double figures only once, averaging below seven. Such disappointing statistics have made it challenging for selectors to justify his inclusion in the squad.

As Pakistan prepares for an international series beginning with three ODIs against Sri Lanka on November 11, followed by a T20I tri-series with Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe starting November 17, this will be the inaugural multi-team T20I tournament on Pakistani soil—an essential opportunity for both veteran and emerging players.

The ODI squad includes:
Shaheen Shah Afridi (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Faisal Akram, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Haseebullah, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, and Salman Ali Agha.

The T20I tri-series roster features:
Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wk), Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan (wk), and Usman Tariq.

The decision to send Hasan Nawaz to domestic cricket appears to be a strategic move by the team management aimed at helping him regain his form and confidence in local competitions. Participating in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy might provide him with an opportunity to refine his shot selection and learn to build innings under pressure.

With Fakhar Zaman back in the mix, Pakistan adds a proficient top-order option, while younger players like Saim Ayub and Usman Khan will aim to leave their mark in limited-overs formats.

Even though there are uncertainties regarding Hasan Nawaz’s immediate place in the national lineup, he remains among Pakistan’s most talented young batters. A strong display in domestic cricket could quickly ease his return into consideration. The selectors have indicated that they still value his potential and power-hitting prowess; however, greater consistency and improved decision-making will be vital for his revival.

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