Sohail Khan recalled in Pak T20 squad for World XI series

Fast bowler Sohail Khan, who made his last T20 international appearance for the country in September 2011, has been recalled in the 16-man Pakistan squad for the three-match T20 series against World XI, which will be led by South Africa's Faf du Plessis.

Sarfaraz Ahmed has been named the captain of the side, with young players like Fahim Ashraf, Ruman Raees, Usman Shinwari and Aamer Yamin all been roped in following their impressive performances in the domestic circuit.

Mohammad Hafeez, Kamran Akmal and Wahab Riaz, who all were part of the side's last T20 series against West Indies, have been left out for the series against World XI.

Reflecting on the squad, national chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq said that the team is a perfect blend of youth and experienced players, who have been chosen keeping in mind the conditions and their recent performances.

"The team has been selected keeping in mind the conditions and the recent performances of some players in the domestic and international tours. The players' consists of a combination of the fine blend of youth and senior players. Fahim Ashraf, Ruman Raees, and Aamer Yamin make a place in the squad due to their splendid performance in the domestic tournaments, whereas Sohail Khan makes a comeback. It would be good for the young players to get a chance to play on the home ground and perform in front of the local public", Inzamam said.

Meanwhile, Azhar Ali, Mohammad Hafeez, Kamran Akmal and Wahab Riaz are notable omissions from the squad.

The World XI series will mark the revival of international cricket in Pakistan, with the Sarfraz Ahmed-led side also likely to host Sri Lanka and Windies later this year.

The World XI includes five players from South Africa, three from Australia, two from the Windies, and one each from Bangladesh, England, New Zealand and Sri Lanka.

The first two T20Is will be played on September 12 and 13, and the final game will be played on September 15 at the Gaddafi Stadium

The squad is as follows:

Sarfraz Ahmed (capt), Fakhar Zaman, Ahmed Shehzad, Babar Azam, Shoaib Malik, Umar Amin, Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Ali, Amir Yamin, Mohammad Amir, Ruman Raees, Usman Khan, Sohail Khan.