The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has revealed their 15-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against the West Indies. And there are some familiar faces making a comeback!
Imam-ul-Haq returns to strengthen Pakistan’s top order, while mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed is back to add some spice to the bowling attack. Both players will be key as Pakistan fine-tunes their squad ahead of a jam-packed cricket season.
This series will mark some notable changes from Pakistan’s last Test outing in South Africa. Seven players have been retained from that tour, including skipper Shan Masood and vice-captain Saud Shakeel.
Fresh Faces in Pakistan Squad for West Indies Tests
The squad has been revamped with seven new faces. Off-spinner Sajid Khan and Abrar Ahmed are back to bolster the spin attack alongside left-arm spinner Noman Ali. In the batting department, Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Huraira replace the injured Saim Ayub and out-of-form Abdullah Shafique.
Meanwhile, the pace quartet of Aamir Jamal, Mohammad Abbas, Mir Hamza, and Naseem Shah has been rested as part of workload management. In their place, selectors have recalled Mohammad Ali, retained Khurram Shahzad, and brought in uncapped pacer Kashif Ali.
In the wicketkeeping department, Pakistan will miss Haseebullah, who suffered a split webbing in his right hand during the Cape Town Test. To cover for his absence, former U19 captain Rohail Nazir has been included.
Imam Rewarded for Good Form
With the series being played in Multan, conditions are expected to favor spinners. The inclusion of three specialist spinners shows Pakistan’s intent to make full use of the conditions. Sajid Khan and Abrar Ahmed are expected to partner Noman Ali to form a formidable spin trio.
Imam-ul-Haq’s return brings experience to the top order. The left-hander has been in good form in domestic cricket and will look to cement his spot in the Test side. Youngster Mohammad Huraira, who has been knocking on the selectors’ door with consistent performances, will also be keen to make his mark.
The first Test between Pakistan and the West Indies will be played from January 17 to January 21 in Multan. The second and final Test will begin on January 25 at the same venue.
Pakistan Test Squad for West Indies Series:
- Shan Masood (Captain)
- Saud Shakeel (Vice-Captain)
- Babar Azam
- Kamran Ghulam
- Khurram Shahzad
- Mohammad Rizwan
- Noman Ali
- Salman Ali Agha
- Imam-ul-Haq
- Mohammad Huraira
- Sajid Khan
- Abrar Ahmed
- Mohammad Ali
- Kashif Ali
- Rohail Nazir
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