The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled a 15-member squad for the two-match Test series against West Indies, scheduled to begin on January 17 in Multan. The squad sees seven changes from the previous series against South Africa, where Pakistan suffered a 0-2 defeat.
Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Huraira return
Opening batter Imam-ul-Haq has been recalled after his last appearance on the tour of Australia, along with Mohammad Huraira. The duo will replace injured opener Saim Ayub and out-of-form Abdullah Shafique, aiming to provide stability at the top order.
Revamped spin attack
The spin department has undergone a significant overhaul with off-spinner Sajid Khan and mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed returning to the lineup. They will join left-arm spinner Noman Ali, forming a potent three-pronged spin attack.
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Pace quartet rested; New faces in fast bowling unit
Key pacers Aamir Jamal, Mohammad Abbas, Mir Hamza, and Naseem Shah have been rested to manage their workload. Khurram Shahzad has retained his place, while Mohammad Ali has been recalled. Additionally, uncapped batter Kashif Ali has earned his maiden call-up.
Wicketkeeper-batter Haseebullah, who sustained a hand injury during the Cape Town Test, has been replaced by former Pakistan U19 captain Rohail Nazir.
Shaheen Afridi’s continued absence
Despite the numerous changes, fast bowler Shaheen Afridi remains unavailable. Afridi was rested midway through the series against England and has yet to return to the Test squad.
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, and Salman Ali Agha
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