Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) may drop some of its senior players from the squad which would feature in the upcoming cricket world cup scheduled to start on Feb. 19 next year, officials said Tuesday.
Talking to media, PCB's chief selector Mohsin Khan gave a clear indication that some senior players like wicket keeper batsman Kamran Akmal and former captain Shoaib Malik could miss out on the World Cup preliminary squad but he said there would be enough talent on the national team to do well in the mega event.
"No player is irreplaceable, it would be a setback if we lose some of our leading players but not something that would mean we can't do well in our coming series and tournaments," said Khan.
Khan also tried to make it clear that the selectors can't announce any team until the players get clearance from the PCB.
Reports said that besides the three suspended players, Salman Butt, Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Aamir, Pakistan could also be without other leading players who have not got clearance from the ICC or the PCB to play international cricket.
These players have been allegedly involved in cricket corruption and banned to participate in international sports events till they are proved innocent.
Akmal and leg spinner Danish Kaneria last week met with the officials of the board to find out why they were being ignored for national selection but nothing came out.
Khan also made it clear that they had been told in clear terms by the board not to make any compromises on fitness or discipline.
Cricket experts in the country hold the view that no doubt the young cricketers are talented and energetic but these cannot replace experienced players as the world cup is the world's toughest competition.
