Reports: Babar Azam unlikely to open for Pakistan against West Indies in Test series

After Saim Ayub got injured in the second against South Africa, Babar Azam opened the innings for Pakistan and also returned to form. However, the team lost the Test series by 2-0. Now moving on, the Asian side will play host next to West Indies in the two-match Test series.

Notably, the first Test is scheduled to commence on January 17, at the Multan Cricket Stadium in Multan. Ayub has been ruled for at least six months and it was expected that the former Pakistan skipper will continue opening the innings for the team against Pakistan.

However, according to The Tribune, Babar Azam will be not seen opening alongside Pakistan skipper, Shan Masood in the series. The management had two options to fill Ayub’s role in Imam Ul Haq and Abdullah Shafique. The management has decided to go with Imam and Abdullah is currently going through a lean patch.

It is worth noting that, Imam last played for Pakistan in Test format was on December 26, 2023, in Australia. The southpaw has 24 Tests, amassing 1,568 runs embellished with three centuries. Mohammad Haris is another option the team went with when they announced the squad. Haris is yet to make a debut for Pakistan in Tests. He has played six ODIs and nine T20Is.

Also Read: Agha Salman confident about Pakistan's chances in Champions Trophy

Pakistan Test squad: 

Shan Masood (C), Saud Shakeel (VC), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Kashif Ali, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Noman Ali, Rohail Nazir (WK), Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha. 

West Indies Test Squad:

Kraigg Brathwaite (Captain), Joshua Da Silva, Alick Athanaze, Keacy Carty, Justin Greaves, Kavem Hodge, Tevin Imlach, Amir Jangoo, Mikyle Louis, Gudakesh Motie, Anderson Phillip, Kemar Roach, Kevin Sinclair, Jayden Seales, Jomel Warrican.