Pakistan Unveils New Squad for Test Series Against Bangladesh: Who's In and What's New?

Pakistan's Fresh Squad Announcement

New Delhi: The Pakistan cricket team has revealed a 16-member squad for their upcoming Test series against Bangladesh. Shan Masood will captain a rejuvenated team as they continue their journey in the ICC World Test Championship.

Currently positioned fifth in the WTC standings with a 50% points tally, Pakistan is eager to enhance their ranking against an eighth-placed Bangladesh. This two-match series, commencing on May 8, marks a strategic shift with the inclusion of four uncapped players.

Newcomers Abdullah Fazal, Amad Butt, Azan Awais, and Ghazi Ghori have all received their maiden Test call-ups. Fazal and Awais, both left-handed batsmen, have impressed selectors with their consistent domestic performances. Butt, a bowling all-rounder, brings experience from his first-class debut in 2015, while wicketkeeper-batter Ghori adds international experience after recently debuting in ODIs against Bangladesh.

The squad also features seasoned players such as Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Noman Ali, Sajid Khan, and Salman Ali Agha, ensuring a blend of youth and experience.

Prior to the tour, players not involved in the ongoing Pakistan Super League will convene in Karachi for a red-ball training camp from April 27 to May 1 to gear up.

Additionally, the Pakistan Cricket Board has introduced a new coaching team for the tour, with former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed appointed as head coach. Asad Shafiq will take on the role of batting coach, while Umar Gul will serve as the bowling coach.

The first Test is scheduled from May 8 to 12 at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, followed by the second Test from May 16 to 20 at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.

Squad: Shan Masood (captain), Abdullah Fazal, Amad Butt, Azan Awais, Babar Azam, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Rizwan, Ghazi Ghori, Noman Ali, Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel, and Shaheen Shah Afridi.

Test Series Schedule

Schedule:

First Test: May 8-12, Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium

Second Test: May 16-20, Sylhet International Cricket Stadium