Test squad has been selected to please people, says former captain Inzamam-ul-Haq

Former Pakistan cricket captain Inzamam-ul-Haq on Sunday said that the selection of the Test squad for the two-match series against South Africa  is dissatisfactory, adding that "it seems as if the team has been selected to please people."

Speaking via his YouTube channel, the 50-year-old batsman also said that the team was selected with "no vision at all," Geo.tv    reported.

“Selection is the name of vision for the next two years. Your vision defines your selection, “he said. “In the team announced by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), [the] selection committee headed by Mohammad Wasim showed no vision at all.”

The former batsman added that this team lacks the ability to win matches.

"No one can say that this team can beat any good side. You can prepare big turners against South Africa to win matches but you can’t groom players for future series and that is the most depressing part of this selection," he said.

Pakistan cricket chief selector Mohammad Wasim on Friday announced a 20-member squad for home series against South Africa with nine uncapped players in the list.

While many appreciated the selector for giving the domestic performers a chance, Inzamam had concerns about some of them.

“Can anyone tell me Tabish Khan who is a pacer and is over 36 would go on to improve from here? Even a batsman reaching this age can’t be selected for the very first time for a Test side,” he said.

“Haris Rauf is another example. He has played three first-class matches only taking just seven wickets and you have named him in the Test squad,” Inzamam added.

The former cricketer also criticised the selection of Abdullah Shafique, who has played just one first-class match, saying he did not merit a place in the squad. “Sadly, this has become our selection criteria. On the basis of just one first-class match, we are making efforts to give Test cap to a player.”

Inzamam, however, appreciated the selection of Saud Shakeel and Sajid Khan saying “they are good performers and have age at their side.”