Published: Jun 16, 2017, 07:22 PM (IST)
Edited: Jun 16, 2017, 07:22 PM (IST)
Mohammad Aamer, who missed the semi-final of ICC Champions Trophy 2017 against England due to back spasm, is likely to be available for final clash against India. Aamer completed the entire training session at The Oval on Friday, and is likely in contention to find his spot in the playing XI. Aamer was ruled out of the semi-final after he failed the fitness Test. Rumman Raees made his ODI debut replacing Aamer, and was an instant hit as he ended with figures of 2 for 44 supporting Junaid Khan in Pakistan’s 8-wicket victory. Full Cricket Scorecard: India vs Pakistan, ICC Champions Trophy 2017 Final at The Oval
With Aamer also available for selection, Pakistan could be left in conundrum. Aamer, however, received little success in the first two matches against India and South Africa. He shone with the bat and ball against Sri Lanka that proved to be a turning point. He not only ended with figures of 2 for 53, but also supported his skipper with an unbeaten 28 sailing Pakistan to the semi-final. Azhar Mahmood, Pakistan’s bowling coach, also confirmed that Aamer is fit but did not comment on his spot in the playing XI, “Aamer bowled today. Amir is fit. We have not decided about (playing him).” Mahmood, meanwhile, did say that if Aamer is picked then it would be in place of Raees.
“Let us see who is going to play – Rumman Raees or Aamer. Doesn’t matter. He [Raees] is a quality bowler as well. And he showed in the semi-finals on a big stage he can do the job for us. So it is a good sign for us, guys can replace other guys,” concluded Mahmood.
On the other hand, Hasan who suffered a calf niggle in the semi-final, was not available for training on Friday as reported on ESPNcricinfo.com.
