Mohammad Haris, the talented wicketkeeper-batter has been named as the captain of the Pakistan Shaheens team. The Pakistan Shaheens is a team that represents second level of the national cricket team, just below the main Pakistan team.
Moreover, they have announced their squad for the upcoming ACC Men’s Emerging Asia Cup 2023 and the 15-match tournament will be held in Sri Lanka from 14th to 23rd July, featuring eight teams.
The squad will gather at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore on 3rd July, following the Eid Al Adha holidays, for a week-long training camp before their departure to Colombo on 12th July.
Haris Takes on the Captaincy
Mohammad Haris, at the age of 22 has already made his mark on the international stage, representing Pakistan in five One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and nine Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is).
However, this will be his first time leading the Shaheens, Haris’ previous experience and skills as a wicketkeeper-batter make him a natural choice for the captaincy role. His leadership abilities will be tested in the high-stakes tournament as he looks to inspire his team to retain the title.
Groupings and Format
The Shaheens have been placed in Group A alongside India A, Nepal, and Sri Lanka A. Group B consists of Afghanistan A, Bangladesh A, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the semifinals, with the winners vying for the ultimate prize in the final.
Fixtures and Key Matches
The Pakistan Shaheens will commence their campaign against Nepal on 14th July, setting the tone for their title defense.
This will be followed by highly anticipated encounters against India A on 16th July and Sri Lanka A on 18th July. These matches will be crucial for the Shaheens as they aim to establish early dominance and secure their place in the knockout stage.
In addition to Haris, the Pakistan Shaheens squad comprises several other players with international experience. Arshad Iqbal, who has played one T20I, brings his fast bowling prowess to the team.
Moreover, Kamran Ghulam, a talented all-rounder, has featured in one ODI for Pakistan. Mohammad Wasim Jnr, with appearances in two Tests, 14 ODIs, and 27 T20Is, adds depth and versatility to the squad. Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shahnawaz Dahani, and Tayyab Tahir also bring their international experience to the team, having represented Pakistan in various formats.
The Pakistan Shaheens will enter the ACC Men’s Emerging Asia Cup 202
The Emerging Asia Cup not only serves as a platform for young talents to showcase their skills but also provides an opportunity for them to gain exposure and catch the attention of selectors.
Impressive performances in this tournament could open doors to higher levels of cricket and pave the way for future international call-ups.
The team’s focus will not only be on individual performances but also on playing as a cohesive unit. Teamwork, communication, and a strong team spirit will be vital in navigating through tough matches and emerging victorious.
The captain, Mohammad Haris, will play a crucial role in instilling a winning mentality and leading by example on and off the field.
The fixtures against India A and Sri Lanka A are expected to be the most challenging encounters for the Shaheens. The rivalry between Pakistan and India is always intense, and both teams will be determined to outshine each other. The clash against Sri Lanka A will also test the team’s abilities as they face a strong opponent on their home turf.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has expressed confidence in the selected squad and believes that they have the potential to bring glory to the nation once again. The PCB has provided all the necessary resources and support to ensure that the team is well-prepared for the tournament.
As the countdown to the Emerging Asia Cup begins, cricket enthusiasts and fans across Pakistan eagerly await the team’s performance.
The hopes and aspirations of a cricket-crazy nation rest on the shoulders of the Pakistan Shaheens. The players have an opportunity to make their mark and etch their names in the history books of Pakistan cricket.
Therefore, the announcement of Mohammad Haris as the captain of the Pakistan Shaheens for the Emerging Asia Cup has set the stage for an exciting tournament.
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Furthermore, the team has the potential to defend their title and bring pride to the nation with a talented and experienced squad. The players will be aiming to showcase their skills, adapt to the conditions, and perform at their best.
As the tournament unfolds, cricket fans will be eagerly cheering for their team, hoping for success and memorable moments on the field.
