In anticipation of the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 in India, Pakistan unveiled their formidable 15-member squad. With the unfortunate loss of their key paceman, Naseem Shah, the selection committee turned to the experienced right-arm pacer, Hassan Ali, to fill the crucial role in their bowling lineup.

Chief selector, Inzamam-ul-Haq, elucidated the rationale behind Hassan’s inclusion and underscored his recent standout performances in the Lankan Premier League (LPL).

“In the wake of Naseem Shah’s unfortunate injury, leaving us without our primary bowler, and with Hasnain and Ihsanullah recovering from operations, our options among fast bowlers were limited. Hassan Ali showcased his prowess in the LPL and other recent outings. He brings experience and a history of delivering for Pakistan in major tournaments,” Inzamam stated.

This unexpected proposal emerged during discussions about finding a replacement for the injured Naseem Shah ahead of the ICC World Cup 2023.

The retirement proposition appeared on the platform X (formerly known as Twitter) and was made by a user advocating for the selection of Arshad Iqbal over Hassan Ali. The user’s argument centered on Iqbal’s attributes, which, in their view, made him a more fitting choice for the team. The user contended that Hassan’s presence often facilitated opposing batsmen in settling on the crease, potentially leading to unfavorable outcomes in future World Cup events. The tweet concluded with a plea to Hassan Ali, urging him to “announce retirement from white-ball cricket” to avert any potential embarrassment.

The user’s tweet expressed, “Look at the extra bounce he [Arshad Iqbal] gets, hardly bowls bad balls, and makes batsmen work hard for runs. Hasan to bs ata hi batsmen ko set karny k lia hai [Hasan only helps the batsmen get set on the crease]. Please @RealHa55an announce retirement from white ball cricket, humain zalil nahi hona aik or WC ma [we don’t want to get embarrassed in another World Cup].”