The Pakistan selectors have included all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz and fast bowler Rumman Raees in the squad for the Asia Cup and ICC World Twenty20 tournaments after their impressive performance in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL).

Nawaz, who plays for the Quetta Gladiators in the 2016 PSL is currently the leading wicket-taker in the tournament with eight wickets from four games with an economy of 6.13. 

Apart from his contribution with the ball, Nawaz has also scored 68 runs from four games with an average of 34.

On the other hand, Raees who features for the Islamabad United has been the most economical bowler in the tournament where he had conceded just 44 runs from the 10 overs he bowled.

The selectors have also recalled hard hitting Karachi batsman Khurram Manzoor in the squad after a gap of almost 18 months following his consistent performances in the National One-Day Cup and also against the England Lions. 

Afridi will lead the side with Sarfraz Ahmed as his deputy while Mohammad Hafeez, Shoaib Malik and Umar Akmal will strengthen the batting department. 

The selectors have also retained the talented fast bowler Mohammad Amir, who will bolster the pace attack consisting of Mohammad Irfan, Wahab Riaz and Anwar Ali.

In the absence of Yasir Shah, the selectors have handed the responsibility of leading the spin attack to Imad Wasim and Nawaz while Malik and Iftikhar Ahmed can be handy with part time off-spin.

Chief selector Haroon Rashid stated that the recent performances of the players were kept in consideration while picking the squad.

“While picking the squad, the team management and skipper were consulted by the selectors, and all concerned gave their consent in this regard.

“The T20 team has been selected keeping in mind the conditions during Asia cup and World T20 and the recent performances of some players in domestic and A Team tours.

"The team is a fine blend of experience and youth and the selectors believe that team will do well in both tournaments."

Earlier the Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Shahryar Khan revealed that the board is awaiting clearance from the central government for the participation of the Pakistan team in the ICC World T20 matches to be held in India.

Pakistan squad for Asia Cup and ICC World T20 tournaments

Shahid Afridi (captain), Mohammad Hafeez, Shoaib Malik, Umar Akmal, Sarfaraz Ahmed (vice captain/wk), Babar Azam, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Anwar Ali, Mohammad Irfan, Wahab Riaz, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Nawaz, Khurram Manzoor, Rumman Raees

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