Afridi, Razzaq return to Pakistan ODI squad

The selectors on Wednesday recalled Shahid Afridi in the Pakistan squad for the One-day series against Sri Lanka, hours after the former captain had a meeting with the new PCB Chairman Zaka Ashraf. 

Another senior player Abdul Razzaq was also recalled to the squad for five ODIs and a T20 match against Sri Lanka from this month in the UAE.

"Afridi and Razzaq have been recalled because of their experience and expertise in limited overs cricket," chief selector Mohammad Illyas told reporters. 

The selectors left out paceman Wahab Riaz, who is under scanner as ICC may reportedly launch an investigation into his role in spot-fixing. There were no other surprises in the squad although the selectors gave a chance to promising wicket-keeper Sarfaraz Ahmad, who has been prolific in domestic cricket. 

The selectors also recalled exciting young batsman Umar Akmal. 

Afridi, who had retired earlier due to issues with the management, said he was delighted to get a chance to play for Pakistan again. 

"I am really happy because when I met with the PCB Chairman today it was a very good meeting and he was very kind and motivational," Afridi said. 

"I had made it clear that I just want to play for Pakistan again and have no problems playing under any captain. I have a good understanding with Misbah and will cooperate and support him completely," Afridi said.

Afridi and Razzaq have played a total of 587 ODIs between them. Afridi had stepped down after the West Indies tour while Razzaq was ignored by the selectors since the 2011 World Cup. Razzaq recently led Pakistan to the Hong Kong super sixes title. 

Afridi had announced his retirement in protest after he he was removed as captain of the one-day side by Butt after his differences with head coach Waqar Younis became public. 

Illyas said that the selected team was very balanced and a blend of youth and experience. 

"We have some very capable all-rounders in the side and they give lot of options to the captain," he said. The selectors dropped opener Taufeeq Umar, batsman Azhar Ali, wicketkeeper Adnan Akmal apart from Riaz, who are presently playing the Tests against Sri Lanka . 

Squad: Misbah-ul-Haq (C), Imran Farhat, Mohammad Hafeez, Younis Khan, Umar Akmal, Asad Shafiq, Shoaib Malik, Shahid Afridi, Abdul Razzaq, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Junaid Khan, Umar Gul, Aizaz Cheema, Sohail Tanvir, Abdul Rehman and Saeed Ajmal.