PAK vs BAN: Pakistan Squad For Test Series Against Bangladesh

Pakistan is set to host Bangladesh for a Test series starting August 21. On August 7, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced a 17-member squad for the series, with Shan Masood appointed as the captain. Masood will be supported by Saud Shakeel, who has been named as the vice-captain for the tour. The squad also includes two wicketkeeping options: Sarfaraz Ahmed and Mohammad Rizwan. The series will kick off with the first Test at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The second and final Test of the series will take place at the National Stadium in Karachi, beginning August 30. This series is an important part of the World Test Championship Cycle 2023-25, adding further significance to the matches as both teams vie for crucial points in the ongoing championship.

The announcement of the squad reflects Pakistan's strategy and preparations for the series, highlighting the role of key players and leadership decisions. Shan Masood’s appointment as captain underscores his role in steering the team through this crucial series, while Saud Shakeel's selection as vice-captain suggests his growing importance within the team. The dual wicketkeeping options provide flexibility and depth in the squad, ensuring that the team has experienced players in critical roles. As Pakistan prepares to face Bangladesh, the series promises to be a competitive and closely watched part of the World Test Championship, with both teams looking to make an impact and secure valuable points.

The squad for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh features several notable players, including pacers Naseem Shah and Shaheen Shah Afridi. Both bowlers are expected to play key roles in Pakistan’s pace attack for the two-Test series. The inclusion of these fast bowlers highlights Pakistan's strategy to leverage their pace resources in the series.

Interestingly, the decision to appoint Saud Shakeel as vice-captain, replacing Shaheen Shah Afridi, was a strategic move by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). This change reflects the PCB's broader approach to leadership and team dynamics, aiming to optimize performance and provide Shakeel with a greater leadership role.

The squad’s composition and leadership decisions indicate a well-considered plan for the series, balancing experienced players with emerging talent. As Pakistan prepares to face Bangladesh, the presence of key bowlers like Naseem Shah and Shaheen Shah Afridi, along with the strategic promotion of Saud Shakeel, will be crucial in their bid for success in the World Test Championship Cycle 2023-25.

While Pakistan has announced its squad for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, the visitors' travel plans are shrouded in uncertainty due to the ongoing political unrest in Bangladesh. The situation has been further complicated by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's recent departure from the country. This political instability has cast a shadow over the series, leading to concerns about the tour's schedule.

As of now, there is a significant possibility that the tour could face rescheduling or adjustments regarding venues and dates. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) are closely monitoring the situation and will make decisions based on developments in the coming days. The evolving political climate in Bangladesh may impact the logistics and timing of the series, and both boards are likely to prioritize the safety and security of players and officials. Further clarity on the tour’s schedule and arrangements will be provided as the situation unfolds. For the moment, the uncertainty surrounding the series reflects the broader challenges posed by the current political unrest in Bangladesh.

Pakistan squad For Bangladesh Test series

Shan Masood (captain), Saud Shakeel (vice-captain), Aamir Jamal (subject to Fitness), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Khurram Shahzad, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan (wicket-keeper), Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Sarfaraz Ahmed (wicket-keeper) and Shaheen Shah Afridi. 

PAK vs BAN 2024 Schedule