Babar Azam Reinstated as Pakistan Captain for Upcoming Test Series

Babar Azam has been reinstated as the captain of the Pakistan cricket team for the upcoming Test series against the West Indies. After a challenging period that saw him removed from the captaincy, Babar's return comes with the announcement of a squad featuring four debutants. The series kicks off on July 25, followed by a tour to England. This article delves into the details of the squad and the upcoming matches.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 5, 2026, 14:09 IST

Babar Azam's Return as Captain

Babar Azam is set to lead Pakistan once again as captain for the two-match Test series against the West Indies. His previous stint as captain ended due to a decline in performance, leading to Shan Masood taking over the role. After a challenging period where he lost 12 out of 16 Tests, Babar has been reinstated by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). This decision was made public when the PCB announced the squad for the upcoming World Test Championship series against both the West Indies and England.

The Pakistan team will embark on their tour with four new players making their debut: Ali Usman, right-handed batter Muhammad Awais Zafar, fast bowler Ubaid Shah, and wicket-keeper Muhammad Ghazi Ghori. Additionally, Saud Shakeel has been included for the England series, contingent on his fitness.

The first Test against the West Indies is scheduled to commence on July 25 in Tarouba, with the second Test taking place in Port of Spain starting August 2. Following this, the team will head to England for a three-match series, which will be held in Leeds, Lord's, and Birmingham from August 19.

Squad for West Indies and England: Babar Azam (c), Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Fazal, Ali Usman, Azan Awais, Imam ul Haq, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Mohammad Awais Zafar, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (wk), Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Shan Masood, Ubaid Shah. Saud Shakeel will join the squad for the England tour, pending fitness confirmation.