![Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf [Source: @mufaddal_vohra, @ESPNcricinfo/X]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1756564892614_shaheen_haris.jpg?type=mq)
Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf [Source: @mufaddal_vohra, @ESPNcricinfo/X]
In a significant development, Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first in the second match of the ongoing UAE T20I Tri-series against the hosts, United Arab Emirates. At toss, Pakistan captain Agha Salman confirmed two changes in the tourists' lineup, with Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf missing out on selection.
Why Are Shaheen And Haris Not In Pakistan XI Vs UAE?
Salman Agha clearly stated that Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf have been rested for this match, with Salman Mirza and Hasan Ali replacing them in the playing XI. Considering the Asia Cup is coming up, it seems Pakistan have decided to manage the workload of their frontline pacers to avoid last-minute injury setbacks.
This move will also give crucial game time to Hasan Ali and Salman Mirza to fine-tune their skills ahead of the Asia Cup. Mirza looked impressive against Bangladesh, while Hasan has blown hot and cold since making his comeback after a prolific domestic season.
Meanwhile, Mohammad Wasim Jr, who was picked for his excellence in slog overs, continues to warm the bench for the second successive time in the series. Pakistan have kept the remaining part of their lineup unchanged from the previous clash, with Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Agha Salman, Hasan Nawaz and Sufiyan Muqeem expected to play pivotal roles.
Talking about Shaheen and Rauf, both bowled exceptionally in the Tri-Series opener against Afghanistan. While Rauf derailed the Afghans with a four-wicket haul, Shaheen registered impressive figures of two for 21 in four overs.
Pakistan's playing XI vs UAE: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Salman Ali Agha (c), Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Haris (wk), Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Ali, Salman Mirza, Sufiyan Muqeem
