Pakistan's provisional Test squad revealed for West Indies, England tours

LAHORE: Pakistan's provisional Test squad for the upcoming tours of the West Indies and England has been revealed, with selectors expected to announce the final 17-member squad within the next few days.

According to sources, the preliminary list includes a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging domestic performers as Pakistan prepare for a crucial overseas Test season.

The likely batting contingent features Imam-ul-Haq, Azan Awais, Abdullah Fazal, Awais Zafar, skipper Shan Masood, Babar Azam, Salman Ali Agha, Ghazi Ghori, Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan.

The probable bowling and all-round options are Ali Usman, Sajid Khan, Mohammad Ali, Aamer Jamal, Mohammad Abbas, Ubaid Shah and Khurram Shehzad.

Sources added that Rizwan and Saud recently underwent fitness assessments after dealing with injury concerns. Both players reportedly showed encouraging recovery during the initial tests, but their places in the final squad remain dependent on achieving full match fitness.

If either player fails to recover in time, replacements could be drafted into the touring party. Wicketkeeper-batter Rohail Nazir has emerged as the strongest candidate to replace Rizwan should the vice-captain be ruled out.

It is pertinent to mention that Pakistan are expected to depart for the West Indies on 13 July, where they will play a four-day warm-up match beginning on 18 July.

The two-Test series against the West Indies will be held in Trinidad and Tobago, with the first Test scheduled from 25-29 July and the second from 2-6 August.

Following the Caribbean tour, Pakistan will travel to England for a three-Test series. 

The opening Test will be played at Headingley, Leeds from 19 August, followed by the second Test at Lord's from 27 August and the final Test at Edgbaston, Birmingham from 9 September.