LAHORE: Dashing opener Sharjeel Khan, fast bowler Mohammad Sami and experienced middle-order batsman Khalid Latif were on Monday drafted into the Pakistan squad for the Asia Cup and World T20 after their dazzling show in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL).

PCB chairman Shaharyar Khan approved the changes which saw PSL’s only century-maker Sharjeel replacing injured Babar Azam, Sami comig in place of Ruman Raees and Khalid replacing Iftikhar Ahmed in the Asia Cup and World T20 squad.

A PCB press-release issued by chief selector Haroon Rasheed late on Monday said: “After having looked at the performance of the players in the PSL competition, the selection committee along with captain Shahid Afridi and head coach Waqar Younis have come to the conclusion that keeping in view the outstanding performances of Sharjeel Khan and Mohammad Sami in PSL matches, they should be included as replacements for injured Babar Azam and Ruman Raees respectively for both Asia Cup and World T20.

“Since we have the option available to bring in changes in our World Cup squad before the support period starting from March 8, 2016, it has also been decided to use this option and decided to include Khalid Latif, who showed tremendous display of power hitting in the PSL matches, which paved the way for his inclusion in the World T20 squad in place of Iftikhar Ahmed.

“However, Khalid Latif could not be made part of the Asia Cup squad due to some technical reasons but will join the squad for the World T20.”

Sharjeel has scored 287 runs in the PSL with a batting average of 31.88 and a strike rate of 151.05 while Sami has snapped up 11 wickets for just 107 runs in 20.4 overs with an average of 9.72 in the cash-rich league so far.

According to details, both Babar and Ruman sustained injuries during PSL and will not be available for both the events.

Babar, who was hit on his left forearm in a practice session during PSL, has a fracture and as per the doctors report would be out of active cricket for three to four weeks.

Ruman, meanwhile, suffered a grade one hamstring strain and would take some time to recover completely before he starts bowling in the nets again. He is not taking part in the matches in the final stages of the PSL.

Published in Dawn, February 23rd, 2016