Wicketkeeper-batsman Azam Khan, who has done his reputation of being a power-hitter, has been included in the Pakistan squad for the upcoming T20I series against England and South Africa.
Pakistan will play three one-day internationals (ODIs) and as many T20Is in England from July 8 to July 20, before facing West Indies in five T20Is that will be followed by two Tests.
Some people have strongly criticized the inclusion of Azam Khan in the national squad. They have raised a question: Was Azam Khan selected for national squad based on merit or because he is Moin Khan’s son?
I am by no means suggesting that a relative of someone in power should never be given an opportunity; however, like everyone else, that opportunity needs to be earned by merit and not provided via shortcuts.
Azam was picked based on his talent; ironically his talent only attracted attention from 1 franchise. He was on the radar of selectors for the last year, but was asked to trim his nearly 130-kilo weight before being considered.
He has a strike rate of 157 in 36 domestic Twenty20 matches, including the Pakistan Super League, which is a great one in terms of limited over cricket. Azam Khan still has more work to do on his fitness, but it was hard for him to ignore the hard-hitting batsman’s potential, which can help solve Pakistan’s power hitting problem down the order.
The inclusion of Azam Khan in the T20 squad was a wonderful step from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). We wish Azam Khan the very best in his futures.
