Mohammad Yousuf Rejoins Pakistan Team for New Zealand Tour
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially confirmed that legendary batsman and batting consultant Mohammad Yousuf will rejoin the national squad for the much-anticipated New Zealand tour. This announcement comes as a relief to the team and fans alike, as Yousuf initially withdrew due to personal reasons concerning his daughter’s health.
Mohammad Yousuf Rejoins Pakistan Team After Family Recovery
Speaking to the media, Yousuf shared an encouraging update: “My daughter is feeling much better now, and the doctors have given a positive report. So, I have decided to travel with the team.” His presence is expected to significantly boost the morale and performance of the squad as they prepare for a challenging series against New Zealand.
Pakistan vs New Zealand Tour Schedule
The Pakistan men’s cricket team is set to depart on Wednesday morning, with matches scheduled between March 16 and April 5. The series includes five T20 Internationals (T20Is) and three One-Day Internationals (ODIs) across various venues in New Zealand.
Pakistan Squad for New Zealand Tour
T20 Squad | ODI Squad
| Player | Player |
|---|---|
| Salman Ali Agha (C) | Mohammad Rizwan (C, WK) |
| Shadab Khan (VC) | Salman Ali Agha (VC) |
| Abdul Samad | Abdullah Shafique |
| Abrar Ahmed | Abrar Ahmed |
| Haris Rauf | Babar Azam |
| Hasan Nawaz | Faheem Ashraf |
| Jahandad Khan | Imam-ul-Haq |
| Khushdil Shah | Khushdil Shah |
| Mohammad Abbas Afridi | Tayyab Tahir |
| Mohammad Ali | Mohammad Ali |
| Mohammad Haris | Naseem Shah |
| Muhammad Irfan Khan | Muhammad Irfan Khan |
| Omair Bin Yousaf | Mohammad Wasim Jnr |
| Shaheen Shah Afridi | Sufiyan Muqeem |
| Sufiyan Muqeem | Akif Javed |
| Usman Khan | – |
What Yousuf’s Return Means for Pakistan Cricket
The return of Mohammad Yousuf is a huge boost for Pakistan’s batting lineup, as he brings invaluable experience and mentorship to the squad. Having played in various international conditions, his insights on adapting to New Zealand’s bouncy pitches and swinging conditions will be crucial. His presence will particularly help young players in refining their techniques against quality bowling attacks.
Can Pakistan Overcome New Zealand’s Challenge?
With a blend of experienced players like Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan, alongside young rising stars such as Hasan Nawaz and Omair Bin Yousaf, Pakistan will be aiming to dominate the T20I and ODI series. New Zealand, however, remains a formidable opponent, especially on their home turf, making this an exciting contest to watch.
