Pakistan Announces 15-Member Squad for First Test
Pakistan has recalled fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi for the upcoming Test series against England, starting October 7. Afridi’s return adds strength to the 15-Member Squad as they prepare to face England at home. After missing the second Test against Bangladesh due to poor form, Afridi is back and ready to make an impact.
Afridi’s Comeback and Other Key Inclusions
Afridi, who was dropped during the Bangladesh series, returns with hopes of improving Pakistan’s chances. His pace and early wicket-taking abilities make him a crucial player in the upcoming series.
The selectors have also brought back left-arm spinner Noman Ali, who missed the Bangladesh Tests. Ali replaces fast bowler Khurrum Shehzad, who remains injured from the previous series.
Aamer Jamal Stays in the Squad
All-rounder Aamer Jamal, sidelined during the Bangladesh series due to fitness issues, has been retained. His return boosts the team’s all-round capabilities. The rest of the squad remains unchanged, consisting of players who faced Bangladesh in the last series.
PCB’s Preparations for the Series
To ensure proper preparation, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has withdrawn key players, including Afridi, from the ongoing Champions Cup ODI in Faisalabad. Head coach Jason Gillispie made this request to give the team rest ahead of the Test series.
Players like captain Shan Masood and star batter Babar Azam, who were active in the Champions Cup play-offs, will now shift focus to the Test series. Their leadership and performances will be critical in Pakistan’s success.
Importance of the Test Series
The upcoming Test series against England holds great significance for Pakistan. After losing to Bangladesh, Pakistan now has a chance to redeem themselves. With Afridi back to lead the pace attack and seasoned players like Babar Azam in form, Pakistan is gearing up for a tough contest.
England, known for their strong batting and bowling, will be a challenging opponent. Pakistan will need to perform at their best, especially in the first Test in Multan.
Pakistan’s Full Squad for the First Test
Here is the 15-Member Squad for the first Test against England:
- Shan Masood (Captain)
- Saud Shakil (Vice-Captain)
- Babar Azam
- Muhammad Rizwan
- Abdullah Shafique
- Muhammad Huraira
- Saim Ayub
- Salman Ali Agha
- Sarfaraz Ahmed
- Aamer Jamal
- Noman Ali
- Abrar Ahmed
- Mir Hamza
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
- Naseem Shah
This 15-Member Squad offers a balanced mix of experience and talent. Key players like Saud Shakil and Muhammad Rizwan will strengthen the middle order, while Afridi and Naseem Shah will lead the fast-bowling attack. Noman Ali and Abrar Ahmed will add depth with their spin options.
Conclusion: Pakistan Ready for the Challenge
Pakistan is ready to face England, and much depends on players like Shaheen Afridi, Babar Azam, and Shan Masood. The first Test will set the tone for the series. With a strong squad and clear strategy, Pakistan aims to put up a tough fight against England.
Fans eagerly await Pakistan’s response after their losses to Bangladesh. With Afridi back and the team well-prepared, the Test series promises to be exciting. Stay updated with the latest from IPL365.
