The Pakistan cricket team is set to return to action next month, hosting Bangladesh for a two-match Test series. This will mark the team’s first appearance since their early exit from the 2024 T20 World Cup, where they were eliminated in the first round. The disappointing performance led to reports of internal strife, with Shaheen Afridi allegedly accused of misbehavior by the coaching staff, and resulted in the dismissal of former cricketers Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq from the selection committee.
In light of these events, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly planning significant changes, including making participation in domestic cricket mandatory for players.
Amidst these developments, an undated video featuring Pakistan’s white-ball captain Babar Azam and top-order batter Fakhar Zaman during a net session has gone viral. The clip shows them facing Ubaid Shah, an 18-year-old fast bowler and the younger brother of Pakistan star Naseem Shah. Despite his limited experience, with only four matches in List A and T20s, Ubaid seems to challenge both Babar and Zaman, who appear to struggle against his bowling.
Ubaid Shah is the real deal, amazing wrist & great pace. Hopefully his development continues smoothly.
Consistently hitting great areas against both Babar Azam & Fakhar Zaman.
Islamabad United have a gem. pic.twitter.com/nP7ve4ocvS
— Raz Khan (@razkhan789) July 17, 2024
The anticipation around the Bangladesh series and the possible changes in the PCB reflects the ongoing efforts to rebuild and strengthen the Pakistan cricket team following their recent setbacks.