Test Squad Raises Eyebrows: Who’s In, Who’s Out?
News Desk
Islamabad: Pakistan have signalled a shift in strategy by blending fresh talent with experienced campaigners as they gear up for a crucial two-Test series against Bangladesh in the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle.
The Pakistan Cricket Board unveiled a 16-member squad on Saturday, retaining Shan Masood as captain but placing notable emphasis on emerging players. Four uncapped names, Abdullah Fazal, Amad Butt, Azan Awais and Muhammad Ghazi Ghori, have been drafted in, reflecting a clear intent to build bench strength in the longer format.
The selection comes at a time when Pakistan appear to be recalibrating their red-ball approach, with several squad members already undergoing preparations at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore. Meanwhile, others will join after fulfilling commitments in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL).
Adding to the sense of transition, the PCB has also overhauled the team’s support staff for the tour. Former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed has been appointed head coach, marking a new chapter in his post-playing career.
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He will be supported by Asad Shafiq as batting coach and Umar Gul as bowling coach — a trio that brings significant international experience into the dressing room.
Pakistan will assemble in Karachi later this month for a short training camp before departing for Bangladesh in early May. The series, confirmed by the Bangladesh Cricket Board, will be played in Dhaka and Sylhet, testing Pakistan in familiar subcontinental conditions but against a competitive home side.
With seasoned names like Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Mohammad Rizwan alongside newcomers, the squad reflects a balancing act between stability and renewal.
The upcoming tour is being viewed as an early litmus test for Pakistan’s evolving Test strategy — one that leans on youth development, revamped coaching, and long-term planning in the World Test Championship cycle.
