Pakistan has announced a 16-member squad for the Test series against Bangladesh. The first Test is scheduled to begin on May 8, 2026, at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka.
Shan Masood will continue as captain of the Test team. He leads a mix of experienced players and newcomers. Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi are among the seasoned players included.
Four uncapped players have been added to the squad: Abdullah Fazal, Amad Butt, Azan Awais, and Ghazi Ghori. This decision reflects Pakistan’s strategy to explore fresh talent.
The team will assemble in Karachi on April 27 for a pre-tour camp. Five players are currently participating in the ongoing NCA Red Ball camp in Lahore. Players involved in the PSL will join the camp after their franchise commitments end.
The squad is expected to leave for Bangladesh on May 2. The second Test will be held in Sylhet from May 16 to 20.
Former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed has been appointed head coach for this tour. Asad Shafiq and Umar Gul will serve as batting and bowling coaches respectively.
This sequence of events is significant for Pakistan’s preparation ahead of the Tests. The changes made from the previous squad that faced South Africa indicate a shift in focus towards building a more dynamic team.
Yet, details remain unconfirmed regarding final player selections or potential injuries before departure.
