Wahab Riaz, Pakistan’s fast bowler, has accused the new national team management of picking players based on likes and dislikes.
The pacer spoke to ARY News about his dissatisfaction with his omission from the national team, which he believes was unjustified. “I was really disheartened to be dumped after just one poor series against New Zealand”, he said. Further, he added, “I was a standout player in the home series against Zimbabwe, in England, and before that”.
“I was advised to improve my bowling and get into a groove. There was no cricket after the PSL, but I continued to focus on myself. My preference is determined by the selectors, so I can or may not be on the list of favourites,” he said.
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Wahab also emphasized Mohammad Amir’s contribution to the squad, stating that senior and junior players make a strong mix.
“Pakistan’s new bowling attack lacks experience; but, we [I and Amir] have experience and have succeeded on the international stage. We don’t have to justify anything to anybody, but it is up to them [selectors] whether or not to induct us,” he added.
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The 35-year-old pacer last appeared in a T20I and one-day international against Zimbabwe in 2020. He took five wickets in two One-Day Internationals and two wickets in two Twenty20 Internationals.