Pakistan have officially announced their playing XI for the opening Test of the two-match series against West Indies, scheduled to begin on January 17 at the Multan Cricket Stadium. This series is part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, although both teams have already out of the race for the finals. The occasion is steeped in significance, as it marks the West Indies’ return to Pakistan for a Test series after an 18-year hiatus, reflecting the revival of international cricket in the region.
Mohammad Huraira set for test debut
The 22-year-old Mohammad Huraira is poised to make his Test debut, a move that underscores Pakistan’s faith in young talent. Huraira replaces the injured Saim Ayub, who suffered a fractured ankle during Pakistan’s recent Test series against South Africa in Cape Town. Huraira has been rewarded for his stellar performances in domestic cricket and is expected to bring a fresh dynamic to the top order. He will partner with captain Shan Masood at the top, offering a blend of youth and leadership in the opening pair.
Babar Azam, who stepped up as an opener in the Cape Town Test, will revert to his preferred No. 3 position, anchoring Pakistan’s batting lineup. The middle-order features a mix of solidity and aggression, with vice-captain Saud Shakeel, Kamran Ghulam, wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan and all-rounder Salman Ali Agha forming a strong core.
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A spin-heavy bowling strategy
The team’s bowling setup for the Multan Test highlights a strategic shift toward spin, tailored to exploit the spin-friendly conditions expected at the venue. Sajid Khan and Noman Ali, who were instrumental in Pakistan’s home series win against England, will lead the spin department. Adding to this potent spin arsenal is mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed, whose variations could prove pivotal in unsettling the West Indies’ batting order. In a bold selection, Khurram Shahzad has been named as the lone pacer in the lineup. The management’s decision to go spin-dominant signals their intent to capitalize on Multan’s pitch characteristics while ensuring enough depth in their attack.
Pakistan playing XI for the first Test against West Indies
Shan Masood (c), Muhammad Huraira, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha, Sajid Khan, Noman Ali, Abrar Ahmed, Khurram Shahzad.