Babar Azam Included, Seven Changes Announced
Pakistan’s star pacer Shaheen Afridi will continue to miss the Test format as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced their squad for the two-match Test series against the West Indies. The series is scheduled to take place in Multan from January 17-21 and January 25-29.
The squad sees seven changes from previous selections, with Afridi and fellow pacer Naseem Shah omitted. Their exclusion is likely tied to preparations for the upcoming Champions Trophy, which Pakistan will host after more than two decades. Both bowlers are expected to play a vital role in the tournament.
Afridi’s Continued Absence
Shaheen Afridi has been missing from Pakistan’s Test setup since the series against England in October last year, followed by his exclusion from the Tests against South Africa. His absence highlights Pakistan’s cautious approach to managing his workload ahead of high-stakes events.
In addition to Afridi and Naseem, fast bowlers Mohammad Abbas, Aamir Jamal, and Mir Hamza have also been rested. To fill these gaps, uncapped pacer Kashif Ali, along with Khurram Shahzad and Mohammad Ali, has been called up. The move allows Pakistan to assess new bowling talents ahead of more challenging fixtures.
Bolstering Spin and Batting Options
The squad features the return of seasoned off-spinner Sajid Khan and promising mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed, who will strengthen Pakistan’s spin attack alongside left-arm spinner Noman Ali. This trio is expected to play a crucial role on Multan’s spin-friendly pitches.
In the batting department, Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Huraira have been recalled to open the innings. Their inclusion comes at the expense of Abdullah Shafique, who has struggled for form, and the injured Saim Ayub. Both Imam and Huraira are seen as reliable options to stabilize the top order.
Changes in Wicketkeeping
A key change has been made in the wicketkeeping department, with Haseebullah Khan ruled out due to a hand injury. Former U19 captain Rohail Nazir has been drafted in as his replacement, adding depth and experience to the squad.
Pakistan Squad for West Indies Tests
Captain: Shan Masood
Vice-Captain: Saud Shakeel
Players: 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
As Pakistan tests new combinations in this series, the team looks to build momentum and fine-tune their lineup ahead of the Champions Trophy and other significant challenges.
