FAISALABAD: Following Kamran Ghulam’s exclusion from the Pakistan team for the forthcoming Test series against England, head coach of the Pakistani cricket team Jason Gillespie revealed his thoughts on twitter on Wednesday.
Aamir Jamal, an all-round fast bowler, and Noman Ali, a left-arm spinner, were included in the 15-man team that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on Tuesday for the opening Test match against England.
On the other hand, Kamran Ghulam was not included in the squad, even though he consistently performed on the domestic scene. He was included in Pakistan’s squad for the Bangladesh Tests, along with Muhammad Ali and the injured Khurram Shahzad.
“Selectors’ plans continue to include both Mohammad Ali and Kamran Ghulam, who were on the Bangladesh Tests squad,” the PCB stated in a statement.
They have been advised and encouraged to continue representing their teams in the Champions One-Day Cup and the President’s Cup, beginning on October 3, in order to ensure they stay match-ready through competitive cricket, the statement continued. “However, due to the selection policy’s emphasis on consistency and continuity, and the belief that 15 players is sufficient for a Test,” it said.
Fans questioned the national team’s selection process after Ghulam’s omission raised eyebrows.
That’s why, during the Champions One-Day Cup Eliminator 1 between the Lions and the Stallions, veteran cricketer Salman Butt urged Jason Gillespie to commentate on Kamran Ghulam’s leave-taking.
Describe Kamran Ghulam for us. Though he scored a tonne of runs, he is not included in the squad for the opening Test,” Butt questioned.
In reply, Gillespie praised Ghulam’s achievements for Pakistan Shaheens during their tour to Darwin as well as for local cricket, but he also underlined the importance of having faith in the current team.
“He was performing in Darwin with Pakistan Shaheens. We’re demonstrating faith and patience in our existing group, but we’ve acknowledged his form,” Gillespie said.
