Pakistan’s Playing XI for the Second Test: Key Changes and Strategy
Pakistan’s cricket team has announced its playing XI for the second Test against the West Indies at the Multan Cricket Stadium. The team made one key change: fast bowler Kashif Ali will make his Test debut in place of pacer Khurram Shehzad.
Changes in Pakistan’s Lineup for the Second Test
| Player | Role | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Shan Masood | Captain | Confirmed |
| Mohammad Huraira | Batsman | Confirmed |
| Babar Azam | Batsman | Confirmed |
| Kamran Ghulam | Batsman | Confirmed |
| Saud Shakeel | Batsman | Confirmed |
| Mohammad Rizwan | Wicketkeeper | Confirmed |
| Salman Ali Agha | All-rounder | Confirmed |
| Sajid Khan | Spinner | Confirmed |
| Noman Ali | Spinner | Confirmed |
| Abrar Ahmed | Spinner | Confirmed |
| Kashif Ali | Fast Bowler | Debutant |
Pakistan’s Spin Strategy and West Indies Response
Pakistan’s spin-heavy approach has been lauded following their dominant performance in the first Test, where they secured a 127-run victory in just three days.
Aaqib Javed Defends Spin Strategy
Head coach Aaqib Javed defended the team’s strategy despite criticism from former players and analysts. He emphasized the team’s focus on exploiting the West Indies’ weaknesses against spin bowling.
Key Performances from Pakistan’s Spinners
Spinners Sajid Khan, Noman Ali, and Abrar Ahmed played crucial roles in securing Pakistan’s victory in the first Test.
West Indies’ Confidence in Adapting to Home Conditions
West Indies’ captain, Kraigg Brathwaite, acknowledged Pakistan’s home advantage. However, he remained optimistic about his team’s ability to adapt to the challenging conditions. The West Indies are trailing 1-0 in the two-match series and will aim to bounce back in this second Test.
