Pakistan Unveils Squad for Bangladesh Tests, Sarfaraz Ahmed Takes Coaching Helm
Synopsis
Pakistan cricket has announced a new squad for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, featuring captain Shan Masood and four uncapped players. Former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed steps in as head coach, promising fresh strategies for the matches ahead. The excitement builds as the series kicks off on May 8.
Key Takeaways
New Squad Announcement: Pakistan reveals a 16-member squad for the Bangladesh Tests.
Leadership Change: Shan Masood will captain the team.
Coaching Staff Update: Sarfaraz Ahmed appointed as head coach.
Inclusion of Uncapped Players: Four new players get their first Test call-ups.
Upcoming Schedule: Series starts on May 8.
New Delhi, April 18 (NationPress) The Pakistan cricket team has officially revealed a 16-member roster for their forthcoming Test series against Bangladesh. Shan Masood is set to captain a revitalized squad during the current ICC World Test Championship cycle.
Pakistan currently occupies the fifth position in the WTC standings, boasting a 50 percent point accumulation. The team is eager to enhance its rank while facing a Bangladesh team that is positioned eighth. This two-match series, commencing on May 8, signifies a strategic shift with the inclusion of four uncapped players in the lineup.
Abdullah Fazal, Amad Butt, Azan Awais, and Ghazi Ghori have all received their inaugural Test call-ups. Fazal and Awais, both left-handed batsmen, have been recognized for their consistent domestic performances. Butt adds valuable experience as a bowling all-rounder, having debuted in first-class cricket back in 2015. Additionally, wicketkeeper-batter Ghori has gained international exposure, having made his ODI debut against Bangladesh.
The squad features a robust mix of seasoned players, including Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Noman Ali, Sajid Khan, and Salman Ali Agha, ensuring a balance between youth and experience.
Prior to the tour, players not engaged in the ongoing Pakistan Super League will convene in Karachi for a red-ball training camp from April 27 to May 1 to gear up for their matches.
The Pakistan Cricket Board has also unveiled a new coaching structure for the tour.
Former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed has been appointed as the head coach, while Asad Shafiq will take on the role of batting coach, and Umar Gul will serve as the bowling coach.
The first Test is scheduled to run from May 8 to 12 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, followed by the second Test from May 16 to 20 at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.
Squad: Shan Masood (captain), Abdullah Fazal, Amad Butt, Azan Awais, Babar Azam, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Rizwan, Ghazi Ghori, Noman Ali, Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel, and Shaheen Shah Afridi
Schedule:
First Test: May 8-12, Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium
Second Test: May 16-20, Sylhet International Cricket
Point of View
The announcement of the squad highlights Pakistan's commitment to nurturing new talent while leveraging experienced players. The strategic inclusion of uncapped players signifies a forward-thinking approach, aiming to bolster Pakistan's position in the ICC World Test Championship.
NationPress
1 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the captain of the Pakistan Test team?
Shan Masood is the captain of the Pakistan Test team for the upcoming series against Bangladesh.
When does the Test series against Bangladesh start?
The Test series against Bangladesh begins on May 8.
Who are the new uncapped players in the squad?
The uncapped players included in the squad are Abdullah Fazal, Amad Butt, Azan Awais, and Ghazi Ghori.
Who is the head coach for the Pakistan team?
Former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed has been appointed as the head coach for the Pakistan team.
Where will the first Test be played?
The first Test will be held at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.
