Pakistan announce playing XI for 1st Test against West Indies; Mohammad Huraira will make his debut
Pakistan have officially announced their playing XI for the opening Test two game series against West Indiesstarting on January 17 at the Multan Cricket Stadium. This series is a part ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, although both teams have already dropped out of the race for the finals. The occasion is highly significant as it marks West Indies’ return to Pakistan for a Test series after an 18-year gap, reflecting the resurgence of international cricket in the region.
Mohammad Huraira ready for test debut
22 year old Mohammad Huraira is set to make his Test debut, a move that underlines Pakistan’s faith in young talent. Huraira replaces the injured Saim Ayubwho suffered a fractured ankle during Pakistan’s recent Test series against South Africa in Cape Town. Huraira has been rewarded for his stellar performances in domestic cricket and is expected to bring fresh dynamism to the top. He will partner with the captain Shan Masood at the top, offering a blend of youth and leadership in the opening pair.
Babar Azamwho appeared as an opener in the Cape Town Test, will return to his coveted No.3 position, anchoring Pakistan’s batting line-up. The middle order is characterized by a mixture of solidity and aggression, with the captain Saud Shakeel, Kamran Ghulamwicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan and versatile Salman Ali Agha forming a strong core.
READ ALSO: PAK vs WI 2025: Multan Weather Forecast for 1st Test | Pakistan vs West Indies
Hard bowling strategy
The team’s bowling set-up for the Multan Test highlights a strategic shift towards spin, tailored to take advantage of the spin-friendly conditions expected at the venue. Sajid Khan and Noman Aliwho played a key role in Pakistan’s home win against Englandwill lead the spin department. Adding to this powerful spinning arsenal is the mystery spinner Abrar Ahmedwhose variations could prove crucial in upsetting the West Indies batting order. In the bold selection, Khurram Shahzad he was named as the only pacer in the lineup. The management’s decision to switch to spin dominant signals their intention to take advantage of Multan’s pitch characteristics while ensuring sufficient depth in their attack.
Pakistan playing XI for first Test against West Indies
Shan Masood (c), Muhammad Huraira, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha, Sajid Khan, Noman Ali, Abrar Ahmed, Khurram Shahzad.
READ ALSO: PAK vs WI 2025 1st Test: Pitch Report, Test Stats & Scores at Multan Cricket Stadium
