Imam returns as Pakistan makes seven changes to test squad for WI series

Pakistan has announced its 15-player squad for the upcoming two-match ICC World Test Championship series against the West Indies, scheduled to take place in Multan from January 17 and 25, 2025.

The squad sees seven changes from the 15-member team that toured South Africa in December 2024, where Pakistan suffered a 2-0 defeat.

Opening batter Imam-ul-Haq makes his return to the squad after last featuring on Pakistan's tour of Australia.

The 29-year old batter has played 24 tests for Pakistan but was dropped over poor form after a 3-0 defeat in Australia early last year.

Mohammad Huraira has also been recalled, with both players replacing the injured Saim Ayub and the out-of-form Abdullah Shafique.

In the spin department, off-spinner Sajid Khan and mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed are brought back into the fold to join left-arm spinner Noman Ali, forming a formidable three-pronged spin attack.

The pace quartet of Aamir Jamal, Mohammad Abbas, Mir Hamza, and Naseem Shah has been rested to manage their workloads, while Khurram Shahzad retains his place, and Mohammad Ali is recalled to the squad. Uncapped batter Kashif Ali has earned his maiden call-up to the national side.

Wicketkeeper-batter Haseebullah, who suffered a split in his right-hand webbing during the Cape Town Test, has been replaced by former Pakistan U19 captain Rohail Nazir.

Notably, fast bowler Shaheen Afridi continues to be absent from the squad after being rested midway through the series against England.

The two-match Test series will begin on January 17, with both matches being played in Multan.

Pakistan Squad: Shan Masood (captain), Saud Shakeel (vice-captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Kashif Ali, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan (wicketkeeper/batter), Noman Ali, Rohail Nazir (wicketkeeper/batter), Sajid Khan, and Salman Ali Agha.