Usman Khan Included in Pakistan Squad Despite UAE Ban for New Zealand T20Is

The squad aims to maintain fitness through a rotation policy for the upcoming T20 World Cup

Digital Desk: Usman Khan, known for his powerful batting, has been selected for Pakistan's T20I squad against New Zealand, despite being recently banned by the Emirates Cricket Board. The 28-year-old was a standout performer in the Pakistan Super League, ranking as the second-highest run-scorer. 

However, his involvement in a UAE league led to his ban for breaching obligations to the board. Selector Wahab Riaz defended Usman's inclusion, citing his consistent performance over the past few years. Babar Azam will lead the 17-man squad, which includes Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim, who have come out of retirement. 

"Usman has been scoring runs for the last two-three years so he deserved selection and if there are any other issues Pakistan Cricket Board will be dealing with them," Riaz told media while announcing the squad, as quoted by the Hindustan Times.

The squad aims to maintain fitness through a rotation policy for the upcoming T20 World Cup. "We will follow a rotation policy to keep our players fit for the World Cup, which is our target," said Riaz.

Fast bowler Haris Rauf was omitted due to a shoulder injury sustained during the PSL. 

The five-match series against New Zealand will take place in Rawalpindi and Lahore, setting the stage for an exciting showdown.