In a move brimming with intent and strategic foresight, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled a 15-player squad ahead of their highly anticipated ICC World Test Championship encounters against the West Indies.
The two-Test series, set to commence on January 17th and 25th in Multan, promises to be a captivating contest, and the Pakistani team has made significant alterations to its line-up following a disappointing 2-0 loss to South Africa in December 2024.
Among the most notable changes is the return of the highly effective Sajid Khan, a key spinner who dazzled during the home series against England. Khan, whose spin wizardry was instrumental in Pakistan’s previous triumphs, has been brought back into the fold to fortify the team’s spin department. Joining him is the promising Abrar Ahmed, a spinner whose potential has earned him a spot in the squad.
Pace attack gets rest, fresh talent gets the nod
Pakistan’s bowling attack has undergone a revamp, with the pacers—Aamir Jamal, Mohammad Abbas, Mir Hamza, and Naseem Shah—given a well-deserved rest to manage their workload. This strategic shift sees uncapped Kashif Ali receive a chance to prove his mettle on the international stage, with Khurram Shahzad retained for his dependable performances.
“Adjusting the squad is always a delicate process, but we’re confident that these changes will bring the right balance to our team,” said PCB Chairman, Najam Sethi. “Sajid Khan’s return adds depth to our spin attack, and with the inclusion of fresh faces like Kashif Ali, we’re aiming for a more dynamic and resilient line-up.”
The opening duo of Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Huraira have been recalled to replace the injured Saim Ayub and out-of-form Abdullah Shafique. The injury crisis has further extended to the wicketkeeper position, with Haseebullah sidelined after sustaining a painful split in his right-hand webbing. In his place, the PCB has added Rohail Nazir as a backup wicketkeeper, ensuring the team’s depth in all departments.
Test series against West Indies set to start on Jan. 17 in Multan
The squad, brimming with talent and experience, also features stalwarts like Shan Masood, Babar Azam, and Mohammad Rizwan, all of whom will be crucial to Pakistan’s success in the series. With a mix of seasoned campaigners and young blood, the team is poised to take on the West Indies with renewed vigor and determination.
The two-match series against the West Indies will be played in Multan, starting on January 17th, followed by the second match on January 25th. Both teams are gearing up for what is expected to be a thrilling battle on the subcontinent’s unforgiving pitches, with Pakistan eager to make a statement on home soil.
Squad: Shan Masood (captain), Saud Shakeel, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Kashif Ali, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan, Noman Ali, Rohail Nazir, Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha.
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