The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) recently announced the 15-member Test squad for Pakistan’s upcoming series against the West Indies. The two-match series, part of the ICC World Test Championship, will be played in Multan, with matches scheduled from January 17 to 21 and January 25 to 29, 2025.
The series is set to be a crucial one for Pakistan, and the squad changes reflect a calculated approach to optimize team performance and balance for this challenge.
Squad overview
The 15-member squad for the West Indies series includes a mix of experienced players and young talent. The team is led by Shan Masood, with Saud Shakeel serving as vice-captain. Pakistan’s squad has seen key changes from their previous tour to South Africa, which included a series of tough matches.
These changes demonstrate the selectors’ aim to strengthen the team, particularly in the batting and bowling departments.
Pakistan made seven changes to the squad that toured South Africa. The selectors have strategically opted for a blend of retained players and fresh faces. The most notable change is the return of experienced players such as Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Haris, who will strengthen Pakistan’s batting lineup.
On the other hand, a few players have been rested for workload management, including key pacers like Aamir Jamal, Mohammad Abbas, and Naseem Shah.
Shan Masood continues to lead the team as captain, while Saud Shakeel has been given the role of vice-captain. Masood’s leadership qualities will be tested in this important series against the West Indies.
The selectors have chosen to retain several key players from the South Africa tour. Among these, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Rizwan, Khurram Shehzad, and Nauman Ali are notable.
