Pakistan unveil playing XI for first Test against Bangladesh

Pakistan vs Bangladesh Test Cricket. (Source – Twitter/X)

Team Pakistan (PAK) have unveiled their playing XI for the first Test of the home season against Bangladesh (BAN), which is slated to begin on August 21, In Rawalpindi. Notably, the squad comprises a mix of youth and experience.

The young Shan Masood will once again continue to lead the Test side to gain some valuable leadership experience under his belt. Moreover, the young leader will look to score some vital runs for this side to set the tone for other young batters of Pakistan. To assist him, tow top experienced campaigners in the former skipper Babar Azam and the wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan will assist him with their two cents. Moreover, both the top players of the side will look to find their mojo with the bat in the middle order.

Apart from them, talented players like Saud Shakeel and Abdullah Shafique will provide depth to the batting unit in a bid to dominate the Bangla Tigers in the upcoming Test series. Salman Ali Agha will play the role of the sole spinner on the side along with making vital contributions with the bat. The experienced Shaheen Afridi will partner with the young pace sensation Naseem Shah in the pace department.

Also Read: Pakistan to go all-pace against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi Test

Pakistan will be itching to prove their fitness levels in Rawalpindi

However, earlier today, Pakistan were found grappling with injury concerns in the side. The young Aamer Jamal was ruled out of the Test series due to persistent back issues.

Hence, the home side will be itching to prove their fitness levels in the upcoming first Test against Bangladesh. Interestingly, this will be the first time Pakistan will be fielding a nearly all-pace attack at home after 28 long years. In what will be a fascinating coincidence, they will be playing with a pace-dominated side at the same venue.

Also Read: Aamer Jamal ruled out of Bangladesh Tests with back issue

Pakistan’s playing XI for first Test:

Shan Masood (c), Saud Shakeel (vc), Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Khurram Shehzad, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi.