Ahmed Shehzad likely to be recalled for Sri Lanka tour

Pakistan team chief selector Haroon Rasheed terms opener one of best batsmen of 2014

KARACHI: Pakistan selectors are set to recall opener Ahmed Shehzad for the tour of Sri Lanka when they announce the Test squad for the series against the Islanders starting from June 17, reported Press Trust of India.

Shehzad was dropped from the Bangladesh tour on disciplinary grounds after the 2015 World Cup.

Pakistan team chief selector Haroon Rasheed confessed that Shehzad was one of the best batsman for Pakistan in 2014.

"He is clear for selection and as far as other issues like discipline is concerned that is for the board and team management to deal with," said Haroon.

Former ODI captain Misbahul Haq and head coach Waqar Younis had reportedly suggested to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) that Shehzad and Umar Akmal should be made to play domestic cricket for some time to rectify their cricket discipline and general attitude.

Haroon said they were waiting on the fitness reports of Rahat Ali and Ehsan Adil before they announce the Test squad for the Sri Lanka tour.

"We are waiting for their reports although the medical panel says they have improved after their fitness issues on the Bangladesh tour," said Haroon.

Off-spinner Saeed Ajmal is doubtful to get called up for the series against the Islander after he failed to impress on his comeback against Bangladesh with a revised bowling action. He was also ignored for the home series against Zimbabwe which ended on Sunday.

Young players like left-arm spinner, Muhammad Asghar, leg-spinner Osama Mir and all-rounder Bilal Asif are also probables to get a call for the ODIs and T20s in Sri Lanka.