The entire nation's prayers are with you: PM Imran Khan after Pakistan’s World Cup squad announcement

Yesterday, it was the turn of Pakistan, to name their 15-man squad for the upcoming World Cup, starting May 30 in England and Wales. Their first match is scheduled on Friday, May 31 against the Windies. In the last one and a half years, the Asian giant hasn’t had much to cheer in the 50-overs format after winning only one bilateral series against Zimbabwe last year.

Just a few days ago, Australia inflicted utter mayhem in their camp and demolished them with a 5-0 whitewash in the UAE. The board decided to rest quite a few of their stalwarts and the move eventually backfired. Pakistan have done well in ICC tournaments in the past and the team would want to soar above expectations and turn up with some strong performances.

You are ambassadors of the nation

In the meantime, Imran Khan, the 1992 World Cup-winning captain and the current Honourable Prime Minister of the nation, sent out a heartfelt and motivating message for the Pakistan team. The 66-year-old’s Khan’s international retirement came after the final of the WC against England at the renowned Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

“The entire nation’s prayers are with you. Representing the country at an international forum is a big honour. You are ambassadors of the nation and the people’s eyes are on you, and their hopes rest with you,” Khan was quoted as saying in Pak Passion.

“A champion steps onto the pitch armed with passion and a plan. Team spirit is a key part of victory. With your skills, sportsman spirit and your conduct, bring glory to Pakistan’s name,” Khan added.

As far as the squad is concerned, fast bowler, Mohammad Amir couldn’t make the squad along with the likes of fellow left-arm fast bowlers Wahab Riaz and Usman Shinwari. Imad Wasim and Abid Ali, who had previously failed the yo-yo test, made the cut.

There were also doubts over Mohammad Hafeez’s fitness after the hand injury he suffered while playing for the Lahore Qalandars in the PSL 2019, but he was selected as well. Inzamam-ul-Haq, the national chief selector, named the squad in a press conference.

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