Pakistan’s cricket team has opted to rest seasoned players Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Sarfaraz Ahmed for the upcoming Test matches against England in Multan and Rawalpindi. Spinner Abrar Ahmed will also miss the matches due to dengue fever.
In their place, the team has called up uncapped players Haseebullah, Mehran Mumtaz, and Kamran Ghulam, alongside fast bowler Mohammad Ali and off-spinner Sajid Khan. Additionally, Noman Ali and Zahid Mehmood, who were initially part of the first Test squad but later released, have been recalled to complete the 16-player roster.
The squad for the 2nd and 3rd Tests includes: Shan Masood (captain), Saud Shakeel (vice-captain), Aamer Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Haseebullah (wicketkeeper), Kamran Ghulam, Mehran Mumtaz, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan (wicketkeeper), Noman Ali, Saim Ayub, Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, and Zahid Mehmood.
This decision follows Pakistan’s innings defeat in the opening Test, prompting a reshuffle in the selection committee. Aleem Dar, Aaqib Javed, and Azhar Ali have joined Asad Shafiq, Hasan Cheema, the coach, and the captain on the panel.
“Selecting the squad for the upcoming Tests against England has been challenging,” said selector Aaqib Javed. “We had to carefully consider current player form, the need to rebound in the series, and Pakistan’s rigorous 2024-25 international schedule. Resting Babar Azam, Naseem Shah, Sarfaraz Ahmed, and Shaheen Shah Afridi is in the best interest of the players and Pakistan cricket.”
Javed emphasized the benefits of this break, stating, “This rest will allow these players to regain their fitness, confidence, and composure, ensuring they return stronger for future challenges. They are some of our finest talents, and we are committed to supporting them during this period.”
Meanwhile, the inclusion of uncapped players and other squad members presents an opportunity to prove their capabilities against a strong England side. “We believe these players will rise to the occasion and make the most of this opportunity in the remaining two Tests,” Javed added.
The second Test of the series is scheduled to begin on October 15 in Multan.
