Pakistan batter Sohaib Maqsood has been ruled of the 2021 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup with veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik named as his replacement.
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The news was confirmed by the Pakistan Cricket Board in a statement. Maqsood will miss the tournament due to a lower back injury.
A statement by chief selector Muhammad Wasim read: “Sohaib is devastated to miss out on the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup as he had worked hard for this event and was in sparkling form. We feel for him but injuries are part and parcel of the sport. I am sure after undergoing rehabilitation, he’ll fully recover to be available for future assignments.”
“In his place and following discussions with the team management, we have decided to include Shoaib Malik in the side. I am sure Shoaib’s experience will be handy for the entire squad.”
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The news will come as a major blow to Pakistan, with Maqsood pencilled in as a vital part of their batting set-up. The selectors though will hope that Shoaib Malik’s experience and canny skills with both the bat and the ball will prove to be a great addition to the squad.
Pakistan will open their campaign at the T20 World Cup against India on October 24 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
