Naseem Shah, the 16-year-old speedster from Pakistan, has been withdrawn from the upcoming ICC Under 19 World Cup, the Pakistan Cricket Board announced the news on Tuesday (December 31). The PCB stated it had taken a drastic step by deciding to withdraw Shah, who has already left his impact in senior men’s team, having played three Tests and have a five-wicket haul to his name.

The junior selection panel, led by Saleem Jaffar, has named Mohammad Wasim Jnr. of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as the replacement of Naseem Shah. Wasim Jnr. scalped three wickets each in the youth Asia Cup and in the tour of South Africa. Even he also picked up seven wickets during their Sri Lanka tour.

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“The ICC U19 Cricket World Cup is a stepping stone for future stars and a platform for budding youngsters to graduate to international cricket. Naseem has recently broken that glass ceiling and has established his credentials as an international cricketer,” PCB Chief Executive Wasim Khan said. “As such, the PCB has taken a pragmatic approach and decided to withdraw him from next year’s competition to provide this opportunity to another promising cricketer so that he can show his mettle and potential at a global stage.”

“This should not deter Pakistan’s chances at next year’s ICC U19 Cricket World Cup as the selectors have picked a side that is experienced and bubbling with confidence to perform strongly. Naseem will now remain in Pakistan and continue to work on his skills under the watchful eyes of bowling coach Waqar Younis. Furthermore, he will remain available for the home series against Bangladesh,” Wasim Khan further added.

Pakistan, who won the title in the 2004 and 2006 editions of the Under-19 World Cup, are placed alongside Scotland, Zimbabwe and Bangladesh in Group C of the 16-team mega event this year. Their opening game of the tournament will be against Scotland on January 19.