PCB bars cricketers from taking families along during World Cup

KARACHI (92 News) – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided not to allow team players from taking their families along during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 to be played in England and Wales. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), however, clarified that the team players can keep their families along with them during the series against England. The decision has been taken by considering the World Cup’s pressure and the board wants all the team players to only focus on their game. Earlier, Pakistan’s squad – selected for ICC Cricket World Cup (CWC) 2019 – had called on Prime Minister (PM) Imran Khan. The meeting was held at Prime Minister’s Office; however, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ehsan Mani, Coach Mickey Arthur and chief selector Inzamamul Haq were also present in the meeting. Reportedly, the prime minister gave the important tips to the players for World Cup 2019. It was also reported that Imran Khan directed skipper Sarfraz Ahmed and the players to play with bravery and confidence. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chief Selector Inzimamul Haq has also announced the 15-member team for the International Cricket Council World Cup 2019. All-rounder Muhammad Hafeez’s availability in the squad is subjected to his fitness, said the chief selector. Meanwhile, Abid Ali has been chosen as a third opener in the squad.

Aamir dropped, Junaid Khan picked

Fast bowler Muhammad Aamir has been dropped from the World Cup squad. Junaid Khan, Muhammad Hasnain, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Hassan Ali are expected to lead the Pakistani pace attack. “Aamir is an experienced bowler but unfortunately, his performance has not been as per par from last one year. I pray that he gets his rhythm back as seen in Champions Trophy final,” Inzimam said. Aamir and Asif Ali will accompany the team for the upcoming bilateral series against England, the chief selector announced. The selector admitted that ‘a little favour’ was given to Imad Wasim as despite failing the fitness test he was selected for the World Cup squad. All World Cup-bound players will take part in further training sessions and attend open media sessions at the Gaddafi Stadium on April 20 and 21. Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed and coach Mickey Arthur will hold their joint departure press conference at the Gaddafi Stadium on April 22. The team is scheduled to depart for England on Tuesday, April 23.