Uncapped pacer Kashif Ali has joined Imam, who last participated in a Test match for Pakistan in Australia in 2023–24, on the 15-man roster.
Following the withdrawal of regular opener Saim Ayub due to an ankle ailment, Pakistan on Saturday called up Imam ul Haq to start the Test series against the West Indies. The 15-man squad now includes uncapped quick Kashif Ali in addition to Imam, who last played in a Test match for Pakistan in Australia in 2023–24.
Since Abdullah Shafique, who had been opening frequently with Saim in Test and ODI matches but had lost form on recent tours to Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, was dropped by the selectors, Imam was also called up.
Spinners Noman Ali and Sajid Khan, who were sidelined after helping Pakistan defeat England 2-1 at home last year, have also been called up by the selectors.
Abrar Ahmed, a third specialist spinner, was also chosen by the selectors, suggesting that spin pitches will be ready. After 18 years, the West Indies will play Test matches in Pakistan.
Multan would host both tests, with the first starting on January 17.
Naseem Shah, Muhammad Abbas, Mir Hamza, and all-rounder Aamer Jamal, who recently participated in the Test series in South Africa and won the series 2-0 to advance to the World Test Championship final, were also rested by the selectors.
