Azam Khan's Selection For T20 World Cup 2024 Questioned After England Series

Azam Khan, the 25-year-old wicketkeeper-batter, is part of Pakistan's squad for the T20 World Cup 2024. Despite scoring 88 runs in 13 T20I matches at an average of 9.77 and a strike rate of 135.38, his inclusion has sparked debate.

His performance in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 played a crucial role in retaining his spot. Azam scored 226 runs in 12 matches at an average of 25.11 and a strike rate of 171.21. However, his international performances have not mirrored his domestic success.

After Pakistan's defeat against England in the fourth T20I, Azam was visibly emotional, comforted by captain Babar Azam. Fans criticised him, labelling him as an example of nepotism, especially with Mohammad Haris being overlooked.

Azam's recent form has been under scrutiny, with two ducks in his last five outings. His performance against England highlighted several issues, raising questions about his selection for the T20 World Cup.

England pacer Mark Wood exposed Azam's vulnerability to raw pace. A short delivery from Wood made contact with Azam's gloves before landing into Jos Buttler's hands. The dismissal showcased Azam's lack of footwork and technique against fiery deliveries.

An absolute rocket from Mark Wood to dismiss Azam Khan. pic.twitter.com/8F3hpSoIwW

Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) May 30, 2024

Dropped Catch Off Amir's Bowling

On the second ball of the sixth over, Mohammad Amir bowled a short delivery that edged towards Azam Khan. It was an easy catch above his left shoulder, but he failed to grab it, allowing the ball to race past the boundary ropes.

Dropped Catch Off Rauf's Bowling

In the ninth over, Azam dropped another catch off Haris Rauf's bowling. The edge from Will Jack's bat went straight into Azam's gloves but he spilled it. He then missed an under-arm throw at the stumps, giving away a bye single.

Dropping Shoulders After Missing Catch

After missing two regulation catches, Azam appeared to give up hope. On the fifth ball of the same over, Jos Buttler's pull shot ricocheted towards Azam, but he did not attempt to stop it as it raced past the third-man boundary.

Pakistan will face USA on June 1 in their first match of the T20 World Cup 2024. They failed to qualify for the semi-final of ODI World Cup 2023.