Shoaib Malik replaces Maqsood in T20 WC squad

In yet another change in the Pakistan squad for this month's Men's T20 World Cup, all-rounder Shoaib Malik has replaced batter Sohaib Maqsood, according to a statement issued by the Pakistan Cricket Board.

The PCB said Maqsood had been ruled out of the squad due to a lower back injury. "Sohaib had undergone MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans for the lower back after picking up the injury during [the] October 6 match against Northern and consequently missed the October (7) match against Central Punjab [in the National T20 Cup]," it added.

Commenting on the development, chief selector Mohammad Wasim regretted that Maqsood had to be dropped from the squad.

"Sohaib is devastated to miss out on the ICC Men's T20 World Cup as he had worked hard for this event and was in sparkling form. We feel for him but injuries are part and parcel of the sport," he said, according to the PCB statement. "I am sure after undergoing rehabilitation, he'll fully recover to be available for future assignments."

Wasim added that after discussions with the team management, it had been decided to include Malik in the side. "I am sure Shoaib's experience will be handy for the entire squad."

Malik had captained Pakistan in the inaugural Men's T20 World Cup in 2007 and was a member of the side that won the tournament in 2009.

After missing the West Indies event in 2010, he had featured in the 2012, 2014 and 2016 tournaments. A day ago, the PCB had announced three changes in the Pakistan side for the tournament, with former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed replacing the young Azam Khan.