Lahore, October 6, 2024 — The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially announced the playing XI for the upcoming first Test match against England, scheduled to begin at the National Stadium in Karachi on October 8, 2024.
After a period of intense preparation and selection discussions, Pakistan’s head coach, Grant Bradburn, and the selection committee have settled on a balanced squad that features a mix of experienced campaigners and promising newcomers.
Pakistan’s Playing XI for First Test:
- Abdullah Shafique (Opener)
- Imam-ul-Haq (Opener)
- Babar Azam (Captain)
- Fawad Alam (Middle-order)
- Agha Salman (All-rounder)
- Sarfaraz Ahmed (Wicketkeeper)
- Shan Masood (Middle-order)
- Shahid Afridi (All-rounder)
- Naseem Shah (Fast Bowler)
- Shaheen Shah Afridi (Fast Bowler)
- Yasir Shah (Spinner)
Key Notes:
- Babar Azam will continue to lead the team, bringing in his vast experience and leadership acumen.
- Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah will spearhead the pace attack, with Yasir Shah providing crucial spin options.
- Agha Salman and Shan Masood make their return to the Test squad, with both being key to strengthening the middle order.
- Sarfaraz Ahmed is set to make his return as wicketkeeper in the longest format after a period of absence.
The PCB’s selection committee has opted for a versatile squad that can adapt to the diverse conditions expected in Karachi, with both spin-friendly and pace-bowling conditions in mind.
Head Coach Grant Bradburn’s Comments:
Bradburn expressed confidence in the team’s preparedness, saying, “We’ve been training hard, and the squad is fully prepared for the challenge. England are a formidable side, but we’re looking forward to the contest. The mix of experience and youth in our lineup should give us the edge in this opening Test.”
England’s Tour of Pakistan:
This Test match marks the beginning of a highly anticipated series between Pakistan and England, with both teams eager to establish early dominance. England, under the leadership of Ben Stokes, are coming off a historic series win against India and will look to carry forward their momentum into the subcontinent.
The match will be played in front of a passionate crowd, with expectations high for a thrilling encounter as both teams aim for early points in the series.
