The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled a 15-player squad for the upcoming ICC World Test Championship matches against the West Indies. The two Tests are scheduled to take place in Multan from 17–21 January and 25–29 January.
Seven Changes Made to the Squad
The announced squad includes seven changes from the team that recently toured South Africa. The following players have been retained:
- Shan Masood (Captain)
- Saud Shakeel (Vice-Captain)
- Babar Azam
- Kamran Ghulam
- Khurram Shahzad
- Mohammad Rizwan
- Noman Ali
- Salman Ali Agha
Strengthening the Spin Department
To boost the spin attack, the PCB has recalled off-spinner Sajid Khan and mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed, who will join left-arm spinner Noman Ali.
Changes in the Opening Line-Up
Openers Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Huraira have been brought back into the team to replace the injured Saim Ayub and the out-of-form Abdullah Shafique.
Pace Attack Revamped for Workload Management
The pace bowlers Aamir Jamal, Mohammad Abbas, Mir Hamza, and Naseem Shah have been rested as part of the team's workload management plan. Their replacements include the retained Khurram Shahzad, recalled Mohammad Ali, and uncapped Kashif Ali, who has earned his maiden call-up.
Wicketkeeping Update
Injury woes continue for the squad as wicketkeeper-batter Haseebullah is ruled out after sustaining a split in his right-hand webbing during the Cape Town Test. To fill the gap, former Pakistan U19 and Shaheens captain Rohail Nazir has been added to the team as a wicketkeeping option.
Pakistan Squad for the West Indies Tests
- Shan Masood (Captain)
- Saud Shakeel (Vice-Captain)
- Abrar Ahmed
- Babar Azam
- Imam-ul-Haq
- Kamran Ghulam
- Kashif Ali
- Khurram Shahzad
- Mohammad Ali
- Mohammad Huraira
- Mohammad Rizwan (Wicketkeeper/Batter)
- Noman Ali
- Rohail Nazir (Wicketkeeper/Batter)
- Sajid Khan
- Salman Ali Agha
Focus on a Balanced Team
The Pakistan squad, featuring a mix of seasoned players and emerging talent, aims to deliver strong performances and solidify their position in the ICC World Test Championship standings.