UAE’s top-order batter Usman Khan, born in Pakistan, has been summoned to Pakistan’s training camp with the army in Kakul. This move signals Pakistan’s eagerness to entice him to represent the country of his birth in international cricket. Usman joins 28 other players for the camp, which runs from March 26 to April 8.
Despite the PCB’s silence on Usman’s inclusion or any official change in his status as a UAE player, his selection for the camp is a clear indication of Pakistan’s intentions. In the recent PSL, Usman played as a registered overseas player, amassing the second-highest run tally. Prior to that, he participated in the ILT20 and Abu Dhabi T10 as a local player for the UAE.
In an interview with ESPNcricinfo earlier this month, Usman downplayed his chances of playing for Pakistan in the near future, expressing his determination to complete the residency period to qualify for the UAE. However, he still has 14 months to go before becoming eligible for the UAE.
Usman had previously cited the uncertainty in Pakistan and the ease of obtaining no-objection certificates from the Emirates Cricket Board as reasons for switching allegiances. However, since he has not yet played for the UAE, he can still return to Pakistan without any waiting period.
Given the rapid developments at the PCB, it is highly likely that Usman will be included in Pakistan’s squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand. This move is part of Pakistan’s preparations for the T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA in June.
The training camp also marks the return of two players who recently reversed their retirement decisions: Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir. Imad’s success in the PSL and CPL makes him an attractive prospect for Pakistan, while Amir remains hopeful of representing his country again. Haris Rauf, who is recovering from a shoulder injury, has also been included after his central contract was reinstated by the PCB.
