Pakistan Test Squad for Sri Lanka Series Announced
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) revealed the 16-member Test squad for the upcoming two-match series against Sri Lanka. Fast bowler Shaheen Afridi makes his return to the Pakistan Test squad, along with uncapped batter Mohammad Huraira and all-rounder Aamir Jamal. This series will mark Pakistan’s first assignment in the third cycle of the ICC World Test Championship.
Squad Composition and Conditions Considered
The national selection committee designed the squad with the Sri Lankan conditions in mind. The squad consists of four spinners, four fast bowlers, six specialist batters, and two keeper-batters. This well-rounded team aims to excel in the challenging Sri Lankan conditions.
Upcoming Schedule and Camp
The Pakistan squad will assemble in Karachi on July 3 for a preparatory camp before departing for Sri Lanka on July 9. The detailed itinerary for the tour will be announced by Sri Lanka Cricket soon.
Key Players and Their Performances
The Test squad includes talented players such as Babar Azam (captain), Mohammad Rizwan (vice-captain & wicketkeeper), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Noman Ali, Salman Ali Agha, Sarfaraz Ahmed (wicketkeeper), Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Afridi, and Shan Masood.
Shaheen Afridi, just one wicket away from reaching a century of Test wickets, has been exceptional since his debut in December 2018. With an average of 24.86 and an economy rate of 3.04, he has been a valuable asset to the team.
Promising newcomer Mohammad Huraira secured his place in the squad due to his impressive performances. He was the leading run-scorer in the last two editions of the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, where he breached the 1000-run mark. Huraira’s consistent performances earned him a spot in the national team.
Aamir Jamal, known for his bowling prowess, topped the wicket-takers chart for fast bowlers in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy 2022-23. He also delivered a memorable performance on his Pakistan debut, defending 15 runs in the last over against England’s Moeen Ali.
Selectors’ Comments and Inclusion Plans
Haroon Rashid, the national men’s chief selector, expressed his satisfaction with the selected squad, particularly highlighting the performances of Mohammad Huraira and Aamir Jamal. Rashid mentioned that the squad was strategically chosen to tackle the conditions and challenges in Sri Lanka. He emphasized the importance of finger spinners and their effectiveness in Sri Lankan conditions.
The chief selector assured the players who missed out on selection that they remain part of the team’s plans. He encouraged them to continue performing well in domestic cricket and Shaheens’ tours to secure future opportunities.
Published in PakWeb, June 17th, 2023.
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