Pakistan are expected to announce their squad for the upcoming Test series against West Indies and England next week, with sources pointing to the inclusion of many regulars.
Who will make the cut?
It is understood that Pakistan captain Shan Masood remains a part of the plans for the squad. He will likely form the batting lineup along with Imam-ul-Haq, Azan Awais, Abdullah Fazal, Awais Zafar, Babar Azam, Salman Ali Agha, Ghazi Ghori, Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan.
Among these players, Awais Zafar is the only change from the batting unit that faced Bangladesh in Pakistan’s recent Test series. However, the selection of Rizwan and Saud is subject to them clearing the fitness tests.
The two batters picked up injuries during the red-ball training camp. And while their fitness tests showed encouraging recovery signs, their full fitness would be crucial for selection.
In the event that Rizwan fails to make the squad, young wicketkeeper batter Rohail Nazir will replace him.
Pakistan’s bowling attack
Additionally, the side could have young bowlers make their debut during the series, with Ubaid Shah and Ali Usman on the radar. During the recent President’s Trophy, Usman paired with Amad Butt to defend a 40-run target for the first time in 232 years.
Both he and Ubaid were part of the red-ball camp and could join forces with a contingent of experienced bowlers, including Sajid Khan, Mohammad Ali, Aamer Jamal, Mohammad Abbas, and Khurram Shahzad.
Pakistan are scheduled to leave on July 13 for West Indies, where they will play two Tests in Trinidad and Tobago, starting July 25. After the series, the side will fly to England, where they will play three Test matches.
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