Islamabad: The Pakistan Cricket Board has unveiled key additions to its Test squad ahead of the forthcoming two-match series against Sri Lanka. Newly included in the team are pace-bowling all-rounder Aamir Jamal, rookie pacer Ali Shabbir, batter Muhammad Tayyab Arif, and pace bowler Saqib Khan. The series is set to commence on November 9 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
According to Pakistan Cricket Board, Tayyab, Ali, and Saqib are receiving their first call-ups to the national team. Their inclusion follows a strong showing in the Patron's XI versus Sri Lanka practice match held at the Islamabad Club from November 4-6. Meanwhile, Ali Usman and Abdullah Fazal have been released from the squad.
Aamir Jamal, who has participated in nine Test matches along with limited-overs formats for Pakistan, has been noteworthy in domestic competitions. He was named player of the final in the President's Trophy Grade-I, showcasing impressive bowling and batting performances. His leadership in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy Gold further demonstrated his capability.
Newly called-up right-hand batter Muhammad Tayyab Arif led Kingsmen Academy in the Departmental first-class tournament, amassing 727 runs. Ali Shabbir, a 19-year-old fast bowler, has also made an impact with 22 wickets in eight first-class matches, including a credible performance against Sri Lanka.
Saqib Khan's contribution to Karachi Blues' successful campaign in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy 2025-26 was significant, taking 47 wickets. These performances have paved the way for their inclusion in the squad, which will be led by captain Babar Azam.
The Pakistan Test squad for the Sri Lanka series includes Babar Azam (captain), Aamir Jamal, Ali Shabbir, Arafat Minhas, Azan Awais, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ghazi Ghori (wk), Mohammad Suleman, Mohammad Taha, Muhammad Tayyab Arif, Razaullah, Saad Baig (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Sameer Minhas, Saqib Khan, and Saud Shakeel.