Pakistan Announces 15-Player Squad for First Test Against England

PCB) has announced a 15-member squad for the first Test against England, set to take place in Multan from October 7 to 11, marking the start of the much-anticipated three-match series.

In a move to ensure players are in peak form, the PCB has opted to withdraw the selected players from the ongoing Champions One-Day Cup playoffs. This decision allows them time to rest and prepare thoroughly for the important series. The squad is scheduled to gather in Multan on September 30, with training sessions beginning on October 1.

Among the key changes, left-arm spinner Noman Ali has been brought into the squad, taking the place of injured fast bowler Khurram Shahzad. Noman, with an impressive tally of 47 wickets in 15 Test matches, will play a crucial role in the team’s spin department.

Despite being part of the squad in Pakistan’s recent Test series against Bangladesh, Kamran Ghulam and Mohammad Ali will not be featuring in this Test. The PCB has advised both players to continue playing in domestic competitions like the President’s Cup, which kicks off on October 3, to maintain their match fitness for future selections.

Jason Gillespie, Pakistan’s red-ball team head coach, expressed his confidence in the squad, stating, “With a packed domestic and international schedule, resting key players ahead of the England series was important. We’re eager for this Test series to start, and playing in front of our home crowd is something we’re all looking forward to.”

The squad will be led by captain Shan Masood, with Saud Shakeel serving as vice-captain. Other notable inclusions include star batsman Babar Azam, wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan, and fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi.

Pakistan Squad for the 1st Test Against England (October 7-11, Multan):