PAK vs WI: Pakistan’s playing XI for the first Test against West Indies – Predicted

The high-voltage Test series between Pakistan and West Indies is set to kick off, promising an exciting contest between two competitive sides. The opening Test, scheduled to start on January 17 at Multan Cricket Stadium, marks the beginning of a battle that could redefine the dynamics of red-ball cricket for both teams.

Pakistan: A strong unit hoping for home dominance

Pakistan enter the series with a formidable squad, blending experienced stalwarts and promising newcomers. Having faced mixed results at home in recent few months, Pakistan will be looking to assert their dominance once again. With key players like Shan Masood, and Mohammad Rizwan leading the charge, and a well-rounded bowling attack, Pakistan aim to leverage familiar conditions to their advantage and set the tone for the series.

Here’s Pakistan’s predicted XI for the first Test against West Indies

1. Shan Masood (C)

• Role: Opening batter and captain
• Strength: Solid technique and temperament
• Expectations: As the captain, Shan Masood is expected to lead from the front. His ability to handle the new ball and anchor the innings will be pivotal. His experience and leadership will also play a key role in managing the young team.

2. Imam-ul-Haq

• Role: Opening batter
• Strength: Consistent scorer and strong against spin
• Expectations: Imam will be tasked with building a strong foundation alongside Masood. His knack for converting starts into big scores will be crucial for Pakistan to dominate early in the innings. Since he is making a return to the Test team, Imam will be desperate to prove his mettle.

3. Babar Azam

• Role: Top-order batter
• Strength: Elegant stroke play and consistency
• Expectations: Babar, Pakistan’s batting maestro, is expected to be the cornerstone of the middle order. His ability to counter-attack and play long innings will be essential in putting pressure on the West Indies’ bowlers.

4. Saud Shakeel (VC)

• Role: Middle-order batter and vice-captain
• Strength: Composed batting and ability to absorb pressure
• Expectations: As vice-captain, Saud Shakeel will look to stabilize the innings during tough phases. His adaptability and temperament will be key, especially if the top order falters.

Also READ: Pakistan appoints new spin bowling coach ahead of the home Test series against West Indies

5. Mohammad Rizwan (WK)

• Role: Wicketkeeper-batter
• Strength: Dynamic batting and safe hands behind the stumps
• Expectations: Rizwan’s dual role as a reliable batter and sharp wicketkeeper is critical. His ability to score quickly and shift momentum will make him a game-changer in crucial moments.

6. Salman Ali Agha

• Role: All-rounder
• Strength: Handy middle-order batter and part-time off-spinner
• Expectations: Salman is expected to provide balance to the side. His contributions with both bat and ball will add depth and flexibility to Pakistan’s lineup.

7. Noman Ali

• Role: Left-arm spinner
• Strength: Accuracy and ability to exploit turning tracks
• Expectations: Noman will spearhead the spin attack. On pitches conducive to spin, his role will be to pick key wickets and maintain pressure.

8. Abrar Ahmed

• Role: Leg-spinner
• Strength: Mystery spin and wicket-taking ability
• Expectations: Abrar’s knack for taking wickets in clusters makes him a vital part of Pakistan’s bowling arsenal. He will look to unsettle the West Indies’ middle order with his variations.

9. Mohammad Ali

• Role: Fast bowler
• Strength: Swing and seam movement
• Expectations: As a new-ball bowler, Mohammad Ali will aim to exploit early conditions. His role will be to provide breakthroughs and keep the run flow in check.

10. Khurram Shahzad

• Role: Fast bowler
• Strength: Consistency and ability to generate reverse swing
• Expectations: Khurram’s role will be to support the lead pacers and capitalize on reverse swing in the later stages of the innings. His control and discipline will be tested in pressure situations.

11. Sajid Khan

• Role: Off-spinner
• Strength: Flight and ability to trouble left-handers
• Expectations: Sajid will complement the spin attack with his off-breaks. His ability to extract turn and bounce could play a decisive role on spinning tracks.

Also READ: Pakistan Cricket Board announces fan-friendly ticket prices for the home Test series against West Indies