The sources say Azan Awais, Imam-ul-Haq, Shan Masood, Babar Azam, and Mohammad Rizwan are expected to be included in the starting XI
TRINIDAD: (UrduPoint/Pakistan Point News-July 24th, 2026) Pakistan’s team management has begun preliminary discussions on the playing XI for the opening Test of the two-match series against the West Indies, with plans to field seven specialist batters.
The sources said that Azan Awais, Imam-ul-Haq, Shan Masood, Babar Azam, and Mohammad Rizwan are expected to be included in the starting XI.
Sources further said that Salman Ali Agha is also set to feature in the lineup and will be used as the fifth bowling option. Aamer Jamal and Mohammad Abbas are also likely to retain their places in the side.
Left-arm spinner Ali Usman is tipped to make his Test debut, while one of Khurram Shehzad or Mohammad Ali is expected to complete the pace attack.
The team management has reportedly instructed the bowlers to focus on improving their batting as well, while the final playing XI will be confirmed after assessing the players’ fitness.
Meanwhile, the preparations are underway at the Brian Lara cricket academy in Trinidad, where the opening Test will be played. Sources said curators have prepared a grassy surface, using brown grass instead of fresh green grass, suggesting conditions that could offer assistance to seam bowlers.
The first Test between Pakistan and the West Indies is scheduled to begin on Friday.
