Exciting Updates for the Multan Showdown
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled its 15-member squad for the two-Test match series against West Indies, scheduled from January 17 to 29 at the Multan Cricket Stadium.
Key Inclusions and Changes
This squad introduces seven changes from the team that toured South Africa. Off-spinner Sajid Khan and left-arm spinner Nauman Ali have been paired with leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed, bolstering the spin attack. Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Huraira return as openers, replacing the injured Saim Ayub and out-of-form Abdullah Shafique.
The pace department sees Khurram Shahzad retained, alongside Mohammad Ali and Kashif Ali, as Amir Jamal, Mohammad Abbas, Mir Hamza, and Naseem Shah are rested for workload management. Wicketkeeper-batter Hasibullah’s injury paved the way for the inclusion of Rohail Nazir, a former Pakistan Under-19 captain, as a backup wicketkeeper.
Retained Players
Captain Shan Masood, vice-captain Saud Shakeel, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Kamran Ghulam, and Salman Ali Agha remain from the South Africa series, ensuring a balanced mix of experience and fresh talent.
The Pakistan Squad in Detail
- Captain: Shan Masood
- Vice-Captain: Saud Shakeel
- Players: Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Kashif Ali, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Haris, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan, Nauman Ali, Rohail Nazir, Sajid Khan
West Indies Return After 19 Years
The series marks the West Indies’ first Test tour to Pakistan since November 2006. Their last Test series against Pakistan was in the UAE in 2016. However, the Caribbean team has visited Pakistan for limited-overs matches thrice since 2018.
Match Schedule
- First Test: January 17-21, Multan Cricket Stadium
- Second Test: January 25-29, Multan Cricket Stadium
