The team for the next Twenty20 International series against New Zealand has been revealed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), and it features an unexpected choice. Usman Khan, who was barred from playing in the United Arab Emirates for his role in the notorious spot-fixing affair, is part of the team. Experts and cricket enthusiasts alike are talking about this surprising choice and raising eyebrows.
2017 saw Usman Khan barred from participating in the UAE following his spot-fixing conviction during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) . The PCB banned the left-arm fast bowler for four years, but after he complied with the organization's anti-corruption section, the ban was lowered to two. His inclusion in the squad has generated controversy, though, because the suspension is still in effect in the United Arab Emirates.
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The PCB has not explained the decision to include Usman Khan in the team, so fans and analysts are left to conjecture. While some see it as a calculated decision to bolster the team's bowling assault, others think the PCB is attempting to give the young player another opportunity and help him get his act together.
Since his punishment was lessened, Usman Khan has been playing excellent domestic cricket. With 17 wickets in 10 matches, he was the National T20 Cup's top wicket-taker. In the recently finished Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, he too did well, claiming 31 wickets in 7 matches. The selectors have chosen to give him an opportunity on the national squad due to their admiration for his performance.
| FORMAT | Mat | Inns | NO | Runs | HS | Ave | BF | SR | 100s | 50s | 4s | 6s | Ct | St |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FC | 2 | 4 | 0 | 39 | 22 | 9.75 | 69 | 56.52 | 0 | 0 | 7 | 0 | 3 | 0 |
| List A | 1 | 1 | 0 | 53 | 53 | 53.00 | 91 | 58.24 | 0 | 1 | 7 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| T20s | 36 | 36 | 5 | 1207 | 120 | 38.93 | 826 | 146.12 | 4 | 4 | 139 | 40 | 17 | 3 |
| FORMAT | Mat | Inns | Balls | Runs | Wkts | BBI | BBM | Ave | Econ | SR | 4w | 5w | 10w |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FC | 2 | 1 | 12 | 13 | 0 | - | - | - | 6.50 | - | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| List A | 1 | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| T20s | 36 | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
While some supporters are thrilled to see Usman Khan return to play, others disagree with the PCB's ruling. They feel that by letting a player who participated in spot-fixing represent the nation, the board is setting a poor example. Additionally, they contend that this action jeopardizes the PCB's attempts to outlaw corruption in sports.
The PCBhas defended its choice to include Usman Khan in the team despite not reacting to the criticism from supporters. According to them, the footballer has completed his sentence and been cleared by the anti-corruption team. They also think he should be given another shot because he has expressed regret for his crimes.
Usman Khan's chances of making a successful return to international cricket are yet unknown. He needs to perform well on the field to regain the respect of both supporters and detractors. He may have a great career ahead of him if he can perform well and avoid problems.
On December 18, Pakistan and New Zealand will play their first Twenty20 International series, with all eyes on Usman Khan as he makes his comeback to the international scene. Will he be able to quiet his detractors with a powerful comeback? Time will tell.
Also Read: Pakistan Squad for New Zealand series 2024
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