T20 World Cup 2021: Shoaib Malik replaces injured Sohaib Maqsood in Pakistan squad

LAHORE: All rounder Shoaib Malik has been named in the Pakistan squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup after Sohaib Maqsood was ruled out due to a back injury he got during the National T20 Cup, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said Saturday.
Sohaib underwent MRI scans for the lower back on Thursday after picking up the injury during the October 6 match against Northern and consequently missed the October 7 match against Central Punjab.
Chief selector Muhammad Wasim: “Sohaib is devastated to miss out on the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup as he had worked hard for this event and was in sparkling form. We feel for him but injuries are part and parcel of the sport. I am sure after undergoing rehabilitation, he’ll fully recover to be available for future assignments.
“In his place and following discussions with the team management, we have decided to include Shoaib Malik in the side. I am sure Shoaib’s experience will be handy for the entire squad.”
Shoaib Malik captained Pakistan in the inaugural event in 2007 and was a member of the side that won the tournament in 2009. After missing the West Indies event in 2010, he featured in the 2012, 2014, and 2016 tournaments.
On Friday, the cricket board made three changes in the team after taking into consideration player performances and form during the National T20 Cup.
Sarfaraz Ahmed and Haider Ali have replaced Azam Khan and Mohammad Hasnain respectively, while Fakhar Zaman, who was originally named as a travel reserve, has swapped places with Khushdil Shah.
The Pakistan squad will depart for Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on October 15.
They will play two warm-up matches against the West Indies and South Africa on October 18 and 20, respectively, before taking on India in a Group-2 fixture on October 24 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
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