The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced an initial 14-member squad for the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka, introducing three uncapped batters while recalling Salman Ali Agha and left-arm spinner Ali Usman.
Babar Azam will continue to lead the Test team as Pakistan look to rebuild after a difficult 3-0 series defeat against England. The home series is part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 cycle and offers Pakistan an opportunity to strengthen their position in the competition.
The biggest talking points from the selection are the inclusion of three promising domestic performers, the return of two previously omitted players and the 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 following impressive performances in domestic cricket.
Left-handed batter Taha has been particularly prolific in the ongoing President’s Trophy Grade-I tournament. He has scored 730 runs in seven matches, including three centuries and a highest score of 225. His consistency has made him one of the standout performers in Pakistan’s domestic red-ball season.
Suleman has also impressed, collecting 652 runs in seven matches, including three centuries. His performances have strengthened his case for an opportunity at the international level.
Minhas, meanwhile, has scored 405 runs in seven matches during his first first-class season. His progress after representing Pakistan at Under-19 level has earned him recognition from the national selectors.
The trio will now have the opportunity to demonstrate whether their domestic success can translate into international Test cricket.
Salman Ali Agha and Ali Usman return
Agha’s recall is another major development in Pakistan’s squad announcement. The all-rounder was among the players released from the Test setup during the England tour in August and September.
His recent performances have helped him return to contention. Agha scored a century against Sri Lanka in the ODI tri-series and also produced significant innings in domestic cricket. His batting and off-spin bowling provide Pakistan with additional flexibility.
Left-arm spinner Usman has also been recalled after missing part of the England tour. His ability to generate spin and offer a different angle gives the selectors another option for the home conditions.
The returns of Agha and Usman suggest Pakistan are keen to combine experience with players who have demonstrated their form in recent matches.
Also WATCH: Will Jacks outfoxes Babar Azam with a beauty in Pakistan ODI Tri-Series 2026
Shan Masood and other established names miss out
Masood’s omission is one of the most notable aspects of the selection. The former Pakistan Test captain scored 95 in the third Test against England but has not been included in the initial squad for the Sri Lanka series.
Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan has also been left out, while Abdullah Shafique, Sajid Khan and Noman Ali are among the other prominent names missing from the announced group.
Pakistan’s squad for Sri Lanka Tests
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
For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.
