Pakistan Cricket Team Names Squad for ICC World Test Championship Matches Against Bangladesh
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has shared its of 17 players for the eagerly awaited ICC World Test Championship matches against Bangladesh. The first match kicks off at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium from August 21-25, while the second one is set for Karachi from August 30 to September 3. Fans can’t wait to see what unfolds Sarfaraz Ahmed!
Key Squad Changes and Leadership Updates
One exciting change in the squad is that Saud Shakeel will be the new vice-captain. He’s a rising talent with great left-handed middle-order batting skills. Saud will be assisting Shan Masood, who’s leading the team. This decision helps manage the workload of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Pakistan’s top fast bowler. The period from August 21, 2024, to April 5, 2025, looks hectic since Pakistan will play nine Tests, 14 T20Is, & at least 17 ODIs. These leadership updates showcase the team’s desire to stay at their best during this busy time.
Sarfaraz Ahmed Weighs In
Former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed is all behind Saud Shakeel in his new role. In a recent chat with a news channel, he said, “Congrats to Saud Shakeel! Being vice-captain of Pakistan’s national team is a huge honor. It’s great to see young players who’ve led at lower levels moving up. Everyone’s talented; it’s super important for youngsters to shine when they get a chance.”
Sarfaraz’s support really shows how much faith everyone has in Shakeel’s ability to do well in this position. It reflects the feeling that the team is heading in a positive direction, blending experienced players with fresh young faces.
Training Camp Kicks Off
Before facing Bangladesh, the Pakistan Test team will start a training camp at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on August 11. Head coach Jason Gillespie & assistant coach Azhar Mahmood will oversee it all. The Bangladesh squad will land in Islamabad on August 17 and will begin training later that day so they’re ready for the matches.
Pakistan Squad Summary
The Test series squad has a nice mix of seasoned players along with new talents. Here’s the complete list:
- Shan Masood (captain)
- Saud Shakeel (vice-captain)
- Aamir Jamal (fitness pending)
- Abdullah Shafique
- Abrar Ahmed
- Babar Azam
- Kamran Ghulam
- Khurram Shahzad
- Mir Hamza
- Mohammad Ali
- Mohammad Huraira
- Mohammad Rizwan (wicket-keeper)
- Naseem Shah
- Saim Ayub
- Salman Ali Agha
- Sarfaraz Ahmed (wicket-keeper)
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
This roster shows a strategic balance between veteran players and up-and-comers, setting up for what should be an exciting series against Bangladesh.
What Lies Ahead
As Pakistan preps for the Test series against Bangladesh, their training & game plans will be key if they wanna come out on top. With star players like Shaheen Shah Afridi being managed smartly & new leaders like Saud Shakeel stepping up, these fixtures should prove challenging but fulfilling.
Cricket lovers & analysts will keep an eye out as Pakistan looks to shine on home ground during this ICC World Test Championship!