Karachi (Sports Desk) Major changes are expected in the national cricket team ahead of the second Test match of the ongoing series against the West Indies.
According to details, captain Shan Masood has been ruled out of the series and England tour due to a back injury, after which Abdullah Shafique and Saud Shakeel have been added to the squad.
Both players also participated in the team’s training session, while Owais Zafar is also part of the squad. However, experienced batters are likely to be preferred for the important match.
The team management is considering changes to the batting lineup. It is likely that Abdullah Shafique will bat at number three, while Babar Azam will retain his traditional fourth position.
The option of playing with seven specialist batters is also under consideration, which could lead to Saud Shakeel’s return to the playing XI.
Changes are also possible in the bowling department. In the first Test, Pakistan’s fast bowlers were slower compared to the West Indies pacers, due to which young fast bowler Ubaid Shah is likely to be given an opportunity.
If the pitch for the second Test also proves favorable for fast bowlers, Pakistan may consider dropping one spinner and including an additional batter or another fast bowler in the team.