The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is all set to announce the national team squad for the upcoming home Test series against the West Indies, scheduled to begin later this month.
Sources confirmed that national selectors have completed their consultations, and the squad will be revealed within the next couple of days, pending approval from PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
According to the sources, the squad selection process also involved devising a strategic plan focused on attacking with spinners against the Caribbean team.
As part of this strategy, Nauman Ali is already confirmed to be included in the squad, while Sajid Khan and Abrar Ahmed are set to make a comeback after being out of action for some time.
Sources also revealed that the squad will feature fewer fast bowlers, with Naseem Shah being rested for this series.
There are no indications of Shaheen Afridi making a return, leaving the pace attack without two of Pakistan’s prominent fast bowlers.
On the batting front, Imam-ul-Haq is expected to make a comeback and the selectors are considering including one or two young batters in the squad.
Unfortunately, injuries have ruled out Saim Ayub and Haseebullah, who were initially in contention for a place.
The much-anticipated series will kick off with the first Test in Multan on January 17, followed by the second Test starting on January 25.
This series marks a significant milestone for Pakistan cricket, as it will be the first Test series hosted in Pakistan against the West Indies since their visit in 2006.
While this will be Pakistan’s first longer-format series in nearly two decades, the West Indies have toured Pakistan on three occasions since 2018 for limited-overs matches.
The historical rivalry between Pakistan and the West Indies spans 54 Test matches, with Pakistan leading the head-to-head record with 21 wins, compared to 18 victories for the West Indies. Fifteen of the matches have ended in draws.
The most recent Test series between the two nations took place in the West Indies in 2021, which concluded in a 1-1 draw.
West Indies Squad: Kraigg Brathwaite (c), Alick Athanaze, Keacy Carty, Joshua Da Silva, Justin Greaves, Kavem Hodge, Tevin Imlach, Amir Jangoo, Mikyle Louis, Gudakesh Motie, Anderson Phillip, Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales, Kevin Sinclair, Jomel Warrican.
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.
Uncertain Saim
Pakistan cricketer Saim Ayub has expressed satisfaction with the measures taken by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) regarding his treatment and recovery.
Speaking from London, where he is undergoing treatment, Ayub said it is too early to confirm whether he will be fit to participate in the Champions Trophy. The left-handed batsman added that he is awaiting the medical panel’s decision and appreciates the PCB’s proactive steps in managing his injury.
Two days ago, Ayub underwent his first medical check-up in London. Renowned ankle specialist Dr. Lucky Jayselan examined the player and provided initial recommendations. Ayub sustained the injury during the Cape Town Test against South Africa, where he was diagnosed with an ankle fracture in preliminary reports.
The PCB made arrangements for Ayub to receive top-tier treatment in London. The next steps in his recovery will be based on reports and advice from British medical experts.