Pakistan announces Test squad for West Indies Series

admin5 hours ago

0 0 2 minutes read

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has revealed its 15-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against West Indies. And there are some familiar faces returning!

Imam-ul-Haq returns to strengthen of Pakistan superb, while mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed is back to add some spice to the bowling attack. Both players will be crucial as Pakistan fine-tune their squad ahead of a busy cricket season.

This series will mark some significant changes from Pakistan’s last Test outing in South Africa. Seven players were retained from that tour, including the captain Shan Masood and co-captain Saud Shakeel.

Fresh faces in Pakistan’s West Indies Test squad

The team was renewed 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 club department, Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Huraira replace the injured Saim Ayub and the out-of-form Abdullah Shafique.

Meanwhile, the pace quartet of Aamir Jamal, Mohammad Abbas, Mir Hamza and Naseem Shah have been rested as part of workload management. In their place, the selectors recalled Mohammad Ali, retained Khurram Shahzad and brought in unofficial player Kashif Ali.

In the wicket-keeping department, Pakistan will be missing Haseebullah, who sustained a tear in his right arm during the Cape Town Test. To cover his absence, former U19 captain Rohail Nazir has been included.

I have been awarded for good form

With the series being played in Multan, the conditions are expected to favor the spinners. The inclusion of three specialist spinners shows Pakistan’s intent to take full advantage of the conditions. Sajid Khan and Abrar Ahmed are expected to partner Noman Ali to form a formidable spin trio.

The return of Imam-ul-Haq brings experience to the top order. The left-hander has been in good form in domestic cricket and will look to cement his place in the Test side. Young Mohammad Huraira, who is knocking on the selectors’ door with constant performances, will also want to leave his mark.

The first Test between Pakistan and West Indies will be played from January 17 to 21 in Multan. The second and final Test will begin on January 25 at the same venue.