PAK vs SA: Danish Kaneria Says Hasan Ali Has Been Picked By Pakistan Based On Friendships

Former Pakistan cricketer Danish Kaneria made a bold remark after the Babar Azam-led side’s poor performances in the ongoing ICC World Cup 2023. He said that they didn’t pick the right team, targeting Hasan Ali, saying that he had been added to the team because of friendships.

Danish Kaneria added that even before the tournament started he knew that Pakistan would struggle because they didn’t get their strategy right. He emphasized that the squad was picked based on personal relationships. Speaking to Aaj Tak, he explained:

“When the squad was announced, I was sure that this wasn’t a well-balanced team. The selections were based on friendships and personal relationships. I knew that this team would struggle in the World Cup. They talk about everything but strategy. They needed to understand that the conditions in India will favor batting and spin. The selection was totally wrong.”

Danish Kaneria while highlighting Hasan Ali’s selection said that the Pakistan squad for the ICC World Cup 2023 is made for the individual’s benefit. He also added that Usama Mir got selected because he has good relations with Inzamam-ul-Haq. He added:

“In Naseem Shah’s absence, Pakistan are giving the new ball to Hasan Ali. Hasan Ali is only in the team because of friendships. Usama Mir plays for Multan Sultans, and Mushtaq Ahmed has good relations with Inzamam-ul-Haq. When a team is made for people’s benefits and not for the country, you will only get such results.”

Pakistan have lost three back-to-back games in the ICC World Cup 2023. What has been disappointing is that they have lost against Afghanistan as well. They were thrashed by 8 wickets against the Aghans and were also pounced by 7 wickets at the hands of India.

PAK vs SA: Why they didn’t pick Imad Wasim – Danish Kaneria Fumes over use of spinners by Pakistan

Pakistan didn’t have a great outing against Australia as well. They lost the game by 62 runs. Danish Kaneria was baffled by the way they used Usama Mir and dropped Shadab Khan. He also raised concerns over non selection of Imad Wasim. He explained:

“When have two leg-spinners played together for Pakistan? When they played at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, where the boundary is very short, Shadab Khan was dropped and Usama Mir was brought in. Also, why they didn’t pick Imad Wasim.”

Pakistan will next be seen in action when they take on South Africa on Friday (27th October). A loss here would also end their chances of qualifying for the semis.