The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled the playing XI for the first Test against Bangladesh, scheduled to begin on August 21 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Monday.
Shan Masood and Saud Shakeel have been named the captain and vice-captain respectively.
Shan Masood will be leading the national team in a home series for the first time.
The batting lineup will feature the experienced Babar Azam, who is expected to play a crucial role, alongside Saud Shakeel and Abdullah Shafique.
The team also includes Saim Ayub, adding depth to the batting order. Wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan, known for his reliable performances, will be a key player behind the stumps and with the bat.
The team’s fast bowling attack will be spearheaded by Shaheen Shah Afridi, with Mohammad Ali, Naseem Shah, and rising star Khurram Shahzad completing the pace quartet.
This Test will mark the first game for Jason Gillespie as the head coach of the Pakistan cricket team, adding an additional layer of anticipation to the match. Gillespie, a former Australian fast bowler, brings extensive experience and a fresh perspective to the team.
Pakistan's Playing XI for 1st Test against Bangladesh:
Abdullah Shafique, Saim Ayub, Shan Masood (c), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Ali, Khurram Shahzad.