KARACHI, Pakistan: The Pakistan Cricket Board has named four uncapped players in its 16-member squad for the upcoming two-Test series against Bangladesh, signalling a focus on developing new talent in the national red-ball setup.
Abdullah Fazal, Amad Butt, Azan Awais and Muhammad Ghazi Ghori have earned maiden call-ups, marking a significant step in their domestic careers. The inclusion reflects a strategy to strengthen the team’s bench while maintaining competitiveness in the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle.
Captain Shan Masood will continue to lead the side, with the series scheduled to be played in Dhaka and Sylhet from May 8 to 20. The squad is expected to assemble in Karachi later this month for a preparatory camp before departing for Bangladesh.
Coaching appointments
Separately, the PCB has appointed former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed as head coach for the tour. He will be supported by Asad Shafiq as batting coach and Umar Gul as bowling coach.
The coaching group brings extensive international experience, with Sarfaraz having previously led Pakistan to major ICC titles.
The upcoming series is expected to provide valuable exposure to the new players as Pakistan looks to build a balanced and competitive Test side.
Squad
Shan Masood (captain), Abdullah Fazal, Amad Butt, Azan Awais, Babar Azam, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (wk), Noman Ali, Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel and Shaheen Shah Afridi
Team management
Naveed Akram Cheema (manager), Sarfaraz Ahmed (head coach), Asad Shafiq (batting coach), Umar Gul (bowling coach), Abdul Saad (fielding coach) Cliffe Deacon (physiotherapist), Grant Luden (strength and conditioning coach), Usman Hashmi (analyst), Syed Naeem Ahmad (media manager), Lt. Col. (r) Usman Anwari (security manager), Dr Wajid Ali Rafai (team doctor) and Muhammad Ehsan (masseur)
