Lahore: The Pakistan Cricket Board today unveiled a 17-member squad for the upcoming ICC World Test Championship matches against Bangladesh, set to begin later this month in Rawalpindi and Karachi. The selection reflects strategic changes and includes players rewarded for their domestic performances.

According to Pakistan Cricket Board, the first Test is scheduled from 21-25 August at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, followed by the second Test from 30 August to 3 September in Karachi. The national team’s preparation will start with a training camp on 11 August at the same venue, under the guidance of red-ball head coach Jason Gillespie and assistant coach Azhar Mahmood.

Shan Masood will lead the team as captain, with Saud Shakeel appointed as the vice-captain. The squad features a blend of experienced players and newcomers, including Mohammad Huraira, Kamran Ghulam, and Mohammad Ali, who have shown promising performances in the domestic circuit. Particularly noteworthy is Huraira’s recent double-century against Bangladesh ‘A’ in Darwin and his consistent scoring in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy.

The selection also marks the return of fast bowler Naseem Shah to the red-ball team after a 13-month hiatus, emphasizing the selectors’ focus on nurturing fast-bowling resources. Meanwhile, players like Imam-ul-Haq, Faheem Ashraf, and Hasan Ali have been omitted from the squad due to recent performances and injuries.

Additionally, the Pakistan Shaheens squad for an upcoming four-day match against Bangladesh ‘A’ was also announced, with Saud Shakeel leading a team that includes several members from the national Test squad. This alignment is intended to ensure that players are well-prepared for international duties.

The Pakistan Cricket Board is coordinating closely with the Bangladesh Cricket Board to finalize the schedule for the Pakistan Shaheens’ series against Bangladesh ‘A’, expected to be announced soon.