Fresh Faces and Familiar Leadership: Pakistan Unveils Squad for Bangladesh Test Series
LAHORE — The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially charted its course for the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle, announcing a 16-member squad for the two-Test tour of Bangladesh. In a move that signals continuity amidst a period of transition, Shan Masood has been retained as captain, while the legendary Sarfaraz Ahmed makes a high-profile transition from the pitch to the dugout as the team’s head coach.
The series, set to be played in Dhaka and Sylhet this May, represents a crucial opportunity for Pakistan to secure vital WTC points.
A Blend of Youth and Experience
The selection committee has opted for a “bridge” approach, balancing seasoned superstars with four uncapped prospects. The inclusion of Abdullah Fazal, Amad Butt, Azan Awais, and Muhammad Ghazi Ghori reflects the PCB’s intent to blood new talent in the demanding red-ball format:
- Key Veterans: The squad is anchored by the world-class trio of Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan. Their experience will be vital in navigating the spin-friendly conditions typically found in Bangladesh.
- The New Guard: Among the debutants, wicketkeeper-batsman Muhammad Ghazi Ghori and top-order prospect Azan Awais are already honing their skills at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Lahore.
The Coaching Revolution: Sarfaraz Takes the Helm
In perhaps the most significant announcement, former Test captain Sarfaraz Ahmed has been named Head Coach for the tour. Sarfaraz, a man synonymous with Pakistan’s greatest modern triumphs—including the 2006 U19 World Cup and the 2017 Champions Trophy—brings a “winner’s pedigree” to the management role.
Sarfaraz will be supported by a powerhouse technical staff:
- Asad Shafiq (Batting Coach): One of Pakistan’s most reliable middle-order stalwarts, Shafiq brings the technical expertise of 77 Tests and over 6,000 international runs.
- Umar Gul (Bowling Coach): Known for his lethal yorkers and swing, Gul’s task will be to manage a pace attack led by Shaheen Afridi and the returning Mohammad Abbas.
Series Schedule & Preparation
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has confirmed two distinct venues for the fixtures:
| Match | Date | Venue |
| 1st Test | May 8 – 12 | Sher-e-Bangla Stadium, Dhaka |
2nd Test | May 16 – 20 | Sylhet |
The Road to Dhaka:
The squad is scheduled to assemble in Karachi on Monday, April 27, for an intensive five-day preparatory camp. A unique logistical challenge faces the team as several key players are currently involved in PSL XI. Those players will join the camp immediately following their franchise commitments, while finalists will fly directly to Bangladesh on May 2.
Analysis: A High-Stakes Tour
This series is more than just a bilateral contest; it is a litmus test for Shan Masood’s leadership and Sarfaraz’s coaching philosophy. With the return of specialist spinner Noman Ali and the tactical inclusion of Sajid Khan, Pakistan seems prepared for the slow, turning tracks of Mirpur.
As the team departs for Bangladesh on May 2, the eyes of the nation will be on whether this blend of “Fresh Blood” and “Old Guard” can propel Pakistan to the top of the World Test Championship standings.
Full 16-Member Squad:
Shan Masood (c), Abdullah Fazal, Amad Butt, Azan Awais, Babar Azam, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (wk), Noman Ali, Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel, and Shaheen Shah Afridi.
