Who is most likely to replace Naseem Shah for ICC Cricket World Cup 2023? Naseem Shah celebrates after dismissing India’s Shardul Thakur (not visible) on September 2, 2023, during the Asia Cup 2023 One-Day International match between India and Pakistan at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy.
The Pakistan cricket squad is compelled to look for replacements due to Naseem Shah’s shoulder ailment, which raises questions about his availability for the upcoming International Cricket Council (ICC) World Cup in 2023.
The right-arm pacer injured his shoulder while playing for the Green Shirts against India at the 2023 Asia Cup.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) provided an update on Shah’s health on Saturday, as stated in the following statement: “The PCB’s medical team has been monitoring the condition of Naseem Shah’s shoulder injury sustained during the Asia Cup 2023. The best care for Naseem is being planned by doctors in consultation with specialists.
The statement stated, “The PCB medical panel will decide on the fast bowler’s return to cricket based on further evaluations.”
The three main players who is likely to replace Naseem Shah are given below:
Zaman Khan
The 22-year-old made his debut in the Asia Cup 2023 game against Sri Lanka, although he was unsuccessful in taking a wicket in his six-over stint. It’s likely that he will replace Naseem Shah in the 15-man lineup because of the excellent final over he bowled, during which he had to hold off eight batsmen.
Although Zaman, known for his slingy movements, hasn’t played much 50-over cricket, his death bowling provides him a competitive edge. In his eight games played in List A, he has only taken six wickets.
Shahnawaz Dahani
Moreover, the 25-year-old was called up as a backup for the Asia Cup, albeit he wasn’t formally included in the squad. He also stands a decent possibility of replacing Naseem because he bowls quicker than 140 kph.
He has played in two ODIs for Pakistan, but his only wicket came in the first game he played there against the West Indies. His stellar List A record, which consists of 56 wickets in 31 games, is outstanding.
Hassan Ali
Hassan Ali might be chosen over the bowlers mentioned above due to his international experience. The 29-year-old has 91 wickets in 60 ODIs. In addition, his hitting prowess distinguished him from the opposition as Pakistan won the 2017 Champions Trophy, earning him Player of the Tournament honors.
Naseem Shah has been an important member of the team in all capacities since his comeback last year, thus while having options, Pakistan would surely miss him at the major tournament.
The ICC World Cup 2023, which will take place in 10 locations from October 5 to November 19, will include 10 nations vying for the prized title. The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad will host both the tournament’s opening game and the final.
