Significant changes likely in Pakistan squad for New Zealand tour

In a bid to improve the team's performance, Pakistan's cricket authorities have decided to drop several senior players from the T20 squad for the upcoming tour of New Zealand.

However, the same players will continue to feature in the one-day squad, as the authorities aim to introduce changes gradually.

According to sources, Mohammad Rizwan, Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Naseem Shah are likely to be excluded from the T20 squad.

In their place, younger players like Imran Niazi and Mohammad Haris are expected to be given a chance to prove themselves. The latter may take on wicket-keeping duties, while Shadab Khan or Agha Salman could lead the team.

The tour of New Zealand will feature five T20Is and three ODIs.

The players' below-par fitness was a major concern during the recent Champions Trophy, where Pakistan's fielding was unimpressive.

Regarding Babar Azam's form, sources suggested that there is a technical issue, but also hinted at a deeper problem.

"You know Ramiz Raja as PCB chairman had given Babar more powers and he used to select the players of his choice and also used to make the team's plans. If a player is above the entire team then things don't go in the right direction," a source said.