Pakistan announces they will play eleven for 1st Test against West Indies; Mohammad Huraira makes his debut
Pakistan have officially announced their playing eleven for the opening test Two game series against West Indieswhich is scheduled to begin on January 17 at the Multan Cricket Stadium. This series is part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, although both teams have already been eliminated from the race for the final. The occasion is significant as it marks the West Indies’ return to Pakistan for a Test series after an 18-year break, reflecting the revival of international cricket in the region.
Mohammad Huraira is preparing for his Test debut
The 22 year old Mohammad Hurairah is ready to make his Test debut, a move that underlines Pakistan’s confidence in young talent. Huraira replaces the injured man Saim Ayubwho suffered a broken ankle during Pakistan’s recent Test series against Pakistan South Africa in Cape Town. Huraira has been rewarded for his outstanding performances in domestic cricket and is expected to bring new dynamism to the top flight. He will work with the captain Shan Masood at the top, offering a mix of youth and leadership in the first pair.
Babar Azamwho featured as an opener in the Cape Town Test, will return to his preferred position of No.3 and lead Pakistan’s batting line-up. The middle class is characterized by a mixture of solidity and aggression, with vice-captain Saud Shakeel, Kamran GhulamWicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan and all-rounder Salman Ali Agha form a strong core.
READ ALSO: PAK vs WI 2025: Multan Weather Forecast for 1st Test | Pakistan vs West Indies
A spin-heavy bowling strategy
The team’s bowling setup for the Multan Test highlights a strategic shift towards spin, tailored to exploit the spin-friendly conditions expected at the venue. Sajid Khan And Noman Aliwho contributed significantly to Pakistan’s home win against Pakistan EnglandHe will head the spin department. Adding to this powerful spin arsenal is a mystery spinner Abrar Ahmedwhose variations could prove crucial to the turmoil in the West Indies batting order. In a bold selection, Khurram Shahzad was named as the only pacer in the lineup. The management’s decision to focus on spin dominance signals their intention to utilize Multan’s pitching characteristics while providing enough attacking depth.
Pakistan plays XI for the first Test against West Indies
Shan Masood (c), Muhammad Huraira, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha, Sajid Khan, Noman Ali, Abrar Ahmed, Khurram Shahzad.
