Usman Khan added to Pakistan T20 squad

Pakistan have added the uncapped left-arm seamer Usman Khan to the T20 squad for the two-match series against Sri Lanka in the UAE, beginning on Wednesday. In his maiden season, the 19-year-old took 5 for 9 to help Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL) beat Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited in the final of the Faysal Bank T20 Cup for departments in December. He was also the tournament's leading wicket-taker with 11 wickets in six games.

"I wasn't really expecting such a quick call but I am terribly lucky to have a chance after my best spell against the best players in domestic cricket," Usman told ESPNcricinfo. "I am thankful to the selectors and the PCB for picking me up.

"I don't know if this is too early for me (to play the international cricket) but what I can say is that I am bowling at my best and ready to hit the international arena. I am looking forward to the opportunity and would like to be Pakistan's surprise package against Sri Lanka."

Born in Landi Kotal, a town 1,072m above sea level in the mountain ranges of FATA, Usman was identified by Khan Research Laboratories for their inter-department Under-19 team in 2011. He later joined ZTBL, for which he made his first-class debut.

In four first-class matches, Usman has picked up 12 wickets with a best of 4 for 27. He has also taken 16 wickets in 11 T20 games.

Usman is the fifth seamer in the T20 squad and third left-armer, including Sohail Tanvir and Junaid Khan. He is expected to join the team on the morning of the first T20 in Dubai on Wednesday.