Imam-ul-Haq returns as Pakistan announce 15-member squad for 2-match Test series against West Indies

Pakistan have named a 15-member squad for the two-match Test series against the West Indies, starting on January 17. The second match will begin on January 25, with Multan hosting both games.

Shan Masood will continue to lead the side, with Saud Shakeel as his deputy. Opening batter Imam-ul-Haq has been recalled, with his last Test appearance for Pakistan coming in December 2023 against Australia. He replaces Saim Ayub, who fractured his ankle during the Test series against South Africa. Abdullah Shafique has been dropped from the squad.

Sajid Khan makes his return after missing the South Africa tour, following a stellar performance at home against England, where he claimed 19 wickets in two Tests. In line with workload management, fast bowlers Aamer Jamal, Mohammad Abbas, Mir Hamza, and Naseem Shah have been rested. Uncapped player Kashif Ali has been added to the squad.

Here’s the 15-member Pakistan squad for the two-match series against the West Indies: Shan Masood (c), Saud Shakeel (vc), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Kashif Ali, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Noman Ali, Rohail Nazir (wk), Sajid Khan, and Salman Ali Agha.

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Pakistan lost their most recent Test series against South Africa

Pakistan were last seen in action during their tour of South Africa, where they played two Test matches. In the first Test at Centurion, Pakistan posted 211 runs in their first innings. South Africa responded with 301 runs.

In their second innings, Pakistan were bowled out for 237, setting a target of 148 runs. Despite a strong comeback from Pakistan's bowlers, who reduced South Africa to 99/8, Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada guided the hosts to a two-wicket victory.

In the second Test, South Africa dominated, posting 615 runs in their first innings. Pakistan were dismissed for 194, prompting the Proteas to enforce the follow-on. In their second innings, Pakistan fought hard and scored 478 runs. However, South Africa chased down the modest target of 58 runs to win the match by 10 wickets.