ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has brought back opening batter Imam-ul-Haq for the upcoming two-match Test series against the West Indies, set to commence in Multan on January 17. This marks Imam’s return to red-ball cricket after his last appearance in December 2023 against Australia.
Imam had been sidelined for Pakistan’s home series against Bangladesh and England, as well as their recent tour of South Africa. With both Pakistan and the West Indies languishing at the bottom of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) points table, this series offers Pakistan a chance to end a disappointing campaign on a positive note.
Struggles of Both Teams in the WTC
Pakistan has endured a tough WTC cycle, losing eight of their last ten matches since Shan Masood assumed the captaincy of the Test side. They began the cycle on a strong note with a 2-0 victory over Sri Lanka in 2023, but their form dipped dramatically. Pakistan suffered clean sweeps against Australia (3-0), Bangladesh (2-0), and South Africa (2-0). Despite a 2-1 series win against England on spin-friendly pitches in Multan and Rawalpindi, the team struggled overall.
The West Indies, meanwhile, are yet to secure a series win in this cycle. They lost to India, South Africa, and England, while managing to draw 1-1 against both Australia and Bangladesh.
Pakistan’s Squad for the Series
The selectors have largely retained the batting lineup that faced South Africa. Key players like captain Shan Masood, Saud Shakeel, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Rizwan, and all-rounder Salman Ali Agha feature in the 15-member squad.
Notable changes have been made in the bowling department, with the pace quartet of Aamer Jamal, Mohammad Abbas, Mir Hamza, and Naseem Shah rested. Mohammad Ali, who last played against Bangladesh, and uncapped Kashif Ali have been added. Khurram Shahzad retains his place in the squad.
In the spin department, Sajid Khan and Noman Ali are expected to lead the attack alongside mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed, who has also been included.
New Opening Pair Likely
With Saim Ayub unavailable due to an ankle injury sustained during the second Test against South Africa, Imam-ul-Haq is expected to open the batting alongside Mohammad Huraira, who has earned a call-up. Former under-19 captain Rohail Nazir will serve as the backup wicketkeeper.
Venue and Schedule
Both matches will be played at the Multan Cricket Stadium due to ongoing renovations at stadiums in Karachi and Lahore ahead of the Champions Trophy in February. The first Test begins on January 17, followed by the second match on January 25.
Full Pakistan Squad
Shan Masood (c), Saud Shakeel, Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha, Mohammad Huraira, Sajid Khan, Noman Ali, Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Ali, Kashif Ali, Khurram Shahzad, Rohail Nazir.
