Pakistan’s Test squad has undergone significant changes for the upcoming two-match series against Bangladesh, with the return of fast bowler Naseem Shah and the appointment of Saud Shakeel as vice-captain.
Shah, who last played a Test in July 2021, has been recalled after impressing in domestic cricket. He joins a bowling attack that includes Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Ali, and Abrar Ahmed.
Shakeel, a middle-order batter, has been rewarded for his consistent performances with the vice-captaincy. He takes over from Afridi, who is currently injured.
The squad also features several new faces, including batter Kamran Ghulam, fast bowler Mohammad Ali, and batter Muhammad Hurraira. These players have earned their call-ups based on their strong showings in domestic cricket.
However, the squad has also seen some notable omissions. Imam-ul-Haq, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Nawaz, Noman Ali, and Sajid Khan have all been dropped, while Hasan Ali and Mohammad Wasim are injured.
The Pakistan squad will begin training in Rawalpindi on August 11 under head coach Jason Gillespie and assistant coach Azhar Mahmood. Bangladesh will arrive in Islamabad on August 17.
The two Tests, part of the World Test Championship, will be played from August 21 to 25 in Rawalpindi and August 30 to September 3 in Karachi.
The appointment of Shakeel as vice-captain is part of a strategic decision by the selectors to manage Afridi’s workload. Afridi is expected to play a key role in Pakistan’s upcoming T20 World Cup campaign.
