Aaqib Javed justifies Faheem Ashraf’s inclusion in Pakistan squad

Pakistan’s interim white-ball head coach Aaqib Javed Wednesday provided an explanation for the inclusion of all-rounder Faheem Ashraf in the national squad, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.  

Addressing the media in Lahore, Javed highlighted the rationale behind selecting Faheem, emphasizing his dual ability to contribute both as a pace bowler and a batsman.

"Faheem Ashraf has been included in the squad because he provides an option with both pace and batting," Javed stated. His remarks come amid discussions about the composition of Pakistan's playing XI and the strategy leading up to the upcoming Champions Trophy.

He further clarified that only one specialist spinner is generally included in the playing XI, making it easier to adjust the squad in case of an injury. 

"In the top seven batters, we always have a spin-bowling option as well," he noted, adding that with the presence of leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed, it is unlikely that Pakistan will field two specialist spinners in the XI.  

Regarding the squad’s stability, the interim head coach expressed confidence in the current selection. 

"In my view, this is likely to be the final squad," he remarked.