The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed the pace bowling lineup for the upcoming Test tours of the West Indies and England, with a few notable changes to the squad. The selected fast bowlers include Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ali, Khurram Shehzad, and Ubaid Shah, while Aamer Jamal has been included as the team’s pace bowling all rounder.
One of the biggest talking points is the omission of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Hasan Ali, and Hammad Butt, all of whom were part of Pakistan’s previous Test squad for the Bangladesh series. Their exclusion reflects the selectors’ decision to move forward with a refreshed pace attack for the challenging overseas assignments.
A major highlight is the inclusion of Ubaid Shah, who has received his first-ever Test call-up. The 20 year old right arm pacer from Lower Dir has impressed in domestic cricket by taking 72 wickets in just 16 first class matches at an average of 25.20. He is also the younger brother of Pakistan fast bowler Naseem Shah, making this selection another proud moment for the family.
Experienced seamer Mohammad Abbas returns as the leader of the pace attack. The veteran has claimed 110 wickets in 29 Test matches with an outstanding bowling average of 23.23, making him one of Pakistan’s most reliable red ball bowlers.
Mohammad Ali also makes his return to the Test squad after his last appearance against Bangladesh in September 2024. Although he has played only four Test matches, the selectors have shown confidence in his ability to contribute during the upcoming series.
Meanwhile, Khurram Shehzad continues to earn the trust of the management after taking 28 wickets in seven Tests. His consistent performances have strengthened his position in Pakistan’s fast bowling unit.
The return of Aamer Jamal adds balance to the squad. The all rounder has scored 352 runs and taken 21 wickets in eight Test matches, providing valuable depth with both bat and ball.
Pakistan is scheduled to depart for the West Indies on July 13, followed by a four day warm up match beginning on July 18. The team will then play a two Test series before travelling to England for a three Test series, where they will face one of their toughest challenges in overseas conditions.
