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Pakistan officially announced their playing XI for the opening Test at two game series AGAINST West Indieswhich is scheduled to begin on January 17 at the Multan Cricket Stadium. This series is part of ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, although both teams are out of the race for the finals. The occasion is full of significance, as it marks the return of the West Indies to Pakistan for a Test series after an 18-year hiatus, reflecting the resurgence of international cricket in the region.
Mohammad Huraira is set for test debut
The 22-year-old Mohammad Huraira is all set to make his Test debut, a move that underscores Pakistan’s faith in the young talent. Huraira replaced the wounded Saim Ayubwho suffered a broken 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 new dynamic to the top order. He will partner with the captain Shan Masood above, offering a blend of youth and the leadership of the opening pair.
Babar Azamwho stepped up as the opener in the Cape Town Test, will return to his chosen No. 3 position, anchoring Pakistan’s batting lineup. The middle order showed a mix of strength and aggression, with the vice-captain Saud Shakeel, Kamran Ghulamwicketkeeper-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 emphasizes a strategic shift towards spin, tailored to take advantage of the spin-friendly conditions expected at the venue. Sajid Khan and Noman Aliwho was instrumental in winning the home series in Pakistan Englandhead the spin department. Adding to this powerful spin arsenal is the mystery spinner Abrar Ahmedwhose differences could prove crucial in upsetting the West Indies batting order. In a bold choice, Khurram Shahzad named the lone pacer in the lineup. The management’s decision to go spin-dominant indicates their intention to exploit the characteristics of Multan’s pitch while ensuring adequate depth in their attack.
Pakistan fielded 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.
