As the second Test between Pakistan and the West Indies approaches, all indications point to the hosts sticking with their lineup from the series opener.
Pakistan’s Likely Lineup for 2nd Test
Pakistan’s lineup for the first Test combined experience with promising new talent and the same XI is expected to take the field in the second match. Here’s a breakdown of the likely players:
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Shan Masood (c) | Captain, opening batter |
| Muhammad Hurraira | Opening batter |
| Babar Azam | Top-order batter |
| Kamran Ghulam | Middle-order batter |
| Saud Shakeel | Middle-order batter |
| Mohammad Rizwan (wk) | Wicketkeeper-batter |
| Salman Agha | All-rounder |
| Noman Ali | Spinner |
| Sajid Khan | Spinner |
| Khurram Shahzad | Fast bowler |
| Abrar Ahmed | Spinner |
Key Performers to Watch
- Saud Shakeel: A standout performer in the opening Test, Saud anchored the innings with a composed 84 off 157 balls and showcased his ability to withstand pressure in the middle order.
- Mohammad Rizwan: The wicketkeeper-batter displayed resilience with a crucial knock of 71 runs, forming a stabilizing partnership with Shakeel in the first Test.
- Shan Masood: After a slow start, the captain found his rhythm in the second innings and will look to lead from the front.
- Babar Azam: Pakistan’s premier batter will be under the spotlight, eager to rediscover his usual form after a string of rough outings.
Pakistan’s spin trio—Noman Ali, Sajid Khan, and Abrar Ahmed—are expected to play a pivotal role on what is likely to be another spin-friendly surface. Noman and Sajid delivered crucial breakthroughs in the first Test, while Abrar’s variations add an extra layer of threat. Khurram Shahzad, the sole specialist pacer in the XI, is likely to retain his place in the team but may remain a spectator for a second Test in a row.
Areas to Improve
Despite a strong performance, Pakistan relied on individual brilliance to win the opening Test. Shan Masood and his men will be hoping to deliver a more cohesive effort with the bat ahead of the rapidly approaching Champions Trophy.
With the series victory in sight, Pakistan will be hoping for an all-round performance to secure the win in the second Test against the West Indies. For now, the management appears to trust the existing combination, backing them to deliver as the action resumes.
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