Babar Azam Returns as Pakistan's Test Captain for West Indies Series

Babar Azam Takes Charge Again

Babar Azam is set to lead Pakistan once more as they prepare for a two-match Test series against the West Indies, commencing on Saturday, July 25. His return comes after Shan Masood was dismissed from the captaincy due to a disappointing performance. Babar first took on the role of Test captain in November 2020 but stepped down from his position as the all-format captain following the 2023 ODI World Cup. He briefly returned as the T20I captain for the 2024 World Cup before resigning again. Now, two years later, he has been reinstated in a leadership role.

The opening Test will be held at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad from July 25 to 29, followed by the second Test at Queen's Park Oval in Trinidad from August 2 to 6. Babar's performance will be closely monitored, especially considering Masood's tenure, which saw Pakistan secure only four victories against 12 losses in 16 matches. In contrast, Babar led the team to 10 wins out of 20 Tests.

For viewers in India, the first Test between Pakistan and West Indies will not be broadcast on television. However, fans can catch the live stream on the FanCode app starting at 7:30 PM IST, with the toss scheduled for 7:00 PM IST.

Squads:

Pakistan Squad: Azan Awais, Imam-ul-Haq, Shan Masood, Babar Azam(c), Abdullah Fazal, Awais Zafar, Mohammad Rizwan(w), Salman Agha, Aamer Jamal, Sajid Khan, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Abbas, Khurram Shahzad, Ghazi Ghori, Ubaid Shah, Ali Usman, Saud Shakeel

West Indies Squad: Brandon King, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Kavem Hodge, Shai Hope, Amir Jangoo, Joshua Da Silva(w), Roston Chase(c), Jomel Warrican, Shamar Joseph, Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales, Kirk McKenzie, Joshua Bishop, Keemo Paul, Justin Greaves