By Alam Zeb Safi
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan head coach Nolberto Solano has recalled several experienced internationals and handed a first senior call-up to forward Ali Khan in a 23-man squad for next month’s Diamond Jubilee International Football Tournament in Maldives.
The four-nation tournament, scheduled to run from June 1-10 in Male, will feature hosts Maldives, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Pakistan in what will serve as another key test for Solano’s rebuilding side.
Pakistan will open their campaign against Bangladesh on June 1 before taking on Maldives three days later and Afghanistan on June 7. The final will be played on June 10 at the National Football Stadium in Male.
Former Peru international Solano, who has overseen Pakistan’s recent push to re-establish themselves in regional football, opted for a blend of overseas-based experience and emerging domestic talent in his final selection.
Among the notable returns are goalkeeper Yousuf Butt and defender Easah Suliman, both of whom bring valuable international experience to the squad. Defenders Mamoon Moosa and Mohammad Fazal also return, alongside forwards Ali Shah and Ali Niazi.
Midfielder Adil Nabi, regarded as one of Pakistan’s most technically gifted players, retained his place in the side, while Ali Khan earned his maiden senior national team call-up after impressing in domestic competitions.
The squad also includes attacking options Otis Khan, Shayak Dost and Harun Hamid as Pakistan look to improve consistency in front of goal following a mixed run of results in recent international outings.
Pakistan are scheduled to depart for Maldives on May 30.
Squad:
Goalkeepers: Saqib Hanif, Yousuf Butt, Hassan Ali
Defenders: Abdullah Iqbal, Mohammad Fazal, Abdullah Shah, Easah Suliman, Mohib Afridi, Mamoon Moosa, Ali Niazi, Haris Zeb
Midfielders: Adil Nabi, Rahis Nabi, Alamgir Ghazi, Hayyan Khattak, Ali Agha, Otis Khan
Forwards: Shayak Dost, Umer Nawaz, Ali Shah, Ali Khan, Samad Arshad, Harun Hamid
