Pakistan has announced their squad for the second ICC World Test Championship match against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi, with notable absentee Shaheen Shah Afridi, their star fast bowler.
Despite his return to the squad after the first Test, Shaheen did not make it into the final 12, marking a significant change in the team’s lineup.
The pace trio of Naseem Shah, Khurram Shahzad, and Mohammad Ali remains unchanged, indicating the team’s confidence in their abilities.
However, Shaheen’s exclusion has raised eyebrows, especially considering his experience and previous performances. Left-arm pacer Mir Hamza, who last featured for Pakistan during their tour of Australia earlier this year, has been named in the squad, adding depth to the bowling attack.
In a strategic move, leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed, who was sidelined in the first Test where Pakistan opted for an all-pace attack, has been recalled to the squad.
Abrar’s inclusion suggests that the team might be considering a spin option in the playing XI, especially after their defeat in the first Test.
Pakistan’s home Test record has been disappointing, with the team failing to secure a win in their last nine matches on home soil, a streak that dates back to early 2021. After losing the first Test to Bangladesh, the pressure is on Pakistan to bounce back and level the series in Rawalpindi.
Jason Gillespie, Pakistan’s newly appointed head coach, shed light on the decision to exclude Shaheen Afridi. He mentioned having a detailed discussion with the pacer, explaining the team’s strategy and the reasons behind the decision.
Gillespie emphasized that while Shaheen is a vital part of the squad, the selection was made in the best interest of the team, considering the conditions and the opposition.
The squad for the second Test is as follows: Shan Masood (C), Saud Shakeel (VC), Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Ali, Salman Ali Agha, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Abdullah Shafique, Naseem Shah, and Khurram Shehzad.
As Pakistan prepares for this crucial match, the focus will be on turning their fortunes around and securing a much-needed victory to stay competitive in the World Test Championship standings.
