Pakistan is preparing for a two-match Test series against the West Indies at Multan Stadium after their recent loss to South Africa, with the first match set for January 17. Opening batsman Saim Ayub, who sustained an ankle injury during the South Africa series, will miss the upcoming games as doctors have advised six weeks of rest. Abdullah Shafique is expected to replace him at the top of the order, with Shan Masood and Babar Azam forming the rest of the opening trio.
The middle order will likely feature Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, and wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan. Salman Ali Agha may also play, utilizing the home-ground advantage, though there is speculation that he could be rested for the Champions Trophy, with Qasim Akram potentially taking his spot.
Pace bowlers Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah are likely to be excluded from the series. Shaheen will be rested for workload management, while Naseem is being saved for upcoming tournaments. In their absence, Mohammad Abbas, who performed strongly in South Africa, will lead the pace attack, supported by Mir Hamza and Khurram Shahzad.
Sajid Khan and Nauman Ali will handle the spin duties, both of whom played key roles in Pakistanβs historic victory over England in the home series.
The squad includes: Shan Masood (C), Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Salman Ali Agha, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Abbas, Nauman Ali, Sajid Khan, Khurram Shahzad, Haseebullah Khan (WK), Mohammad Huraira, and Qasim Akram.
