Pakistan Unveil Test Squad for Sri Lanka Series with Three New Caps and Key Returns

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has named an initial 14-member squad for the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka, featuring three uncapped batters and the recall of Salman Ali Agha and left-arm spinner Ali Usman.

Babar Azam will continue to captain the Test side as Pakistan aim to recover from a challenging 3-0 series loss to England. The home fixtures form part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 cycle and provide a timely chance for Pakistan to rebuild momentum in the competition.

The selection has drawn attention due to the inclusion of three emerging domestic talents, the return of two previously overlooked players, and the notable absence of former captain Shan Masood.

Three batters receive maiden Test call-ups

Sameer Minhas, Mohammad Taha, and Mohammad Suleman have earned their first Test call-ups based on strong performances in domestic cricket.

Left-handed batter Taha has been among the most consistent performers in the ongoing President’s Trophy Grade-I tournament. Scoring 730 runs across seven matches—including three centuries and a top score of 225—he has established himself as one of the standout talents in Pakistan’s red-ball domestic season.

Suleman has also made a strong impression with 652 runs in seven matches, including three centuries. His solid run-scoring record has bolstered his case for international selection.

Minhas contributed 405 runs in seven matches during his debut first-class season. His development since representing Pakistan at the Under-19 level has caught the attention of national selectors.

All three players now have the opportunity to prove themselves on the big stage and show whether their domestic form can carry over to Test cricket.

Salman Ali Agha and Ali Usman return to the fold

Agha’s recall marks a significant turnaround for the all-rounder, who was let go from the Test squad during the England tour in August and September.

Since then, he has regained his place through consistent performances. Agha scored a century against Sri Lanka in the ODI tri-series and added crucial contributions in domestic fixtures. His dual skills with the bat and off-spin bowling offer Pakistan greater tactical flexibility.

Left-arm spinner Usman also returns to contention after missing portions of the England series. His ability to exploit conditions with variation and turn makes him a valuable asset in home conditions.

The comebacks of both players reflect the PCB’s intent to blend proven experience with current form ahead of the Sri Lankan Tests.

Shan Masood and other senior players excluded

Masood’s omission stands out as one of the key decisions in the squad announcement. Despite scoring 95 in the third Test against England, he was not considered for the initial squad facing Sri Lanka.

Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan has also been left out, while names like Abdullah Shafique, Sajid Khan, and Noman Ali are absent from the listed group.

Pakistan’s Test squad for Sri Lanka series

Babar Azam (c), Abdullah Fazal, Ali Usman, Arafat Minhas, Azan Awais, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ghazi Ghori (wk), Mohammad Suleman, Mohammad Taha, Razaullah, Saad Baig (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Sameer Minhas, Saud Shakeel

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