Pakistan Appoint Babar Azam as Test Captain Again Ahead of West Indies and England Tours
Pakistan have made a major leadership change in their Test setup by reappointing Babar Azam as Test captain for the upcoming tours of the West Indies and England. The decision comes after Shan Masood was removed from the role following a disappointing run of results that saw Pakistan struggle in the longest format of the game.
The announcement marks Babar’s return to Test captaincy as Pakistan prepare for two challenging overseas assignments that could shape the team’s future in the ICC World Test Championship cycle.
Babar Azam Returns as Pakistan Test Captain
The Pakistan Cricket Board has decided to hand the Test captaincy back to Babar Azam after Shan Masood’s difficult tenure.
Masood was appointed Test captain nearly three years ago with the hope of rebuilding Pakistan’s red-ball side. However, the results failed to improve, with Pakistan winning only four of the 16 Tests played under his leadership while losing 12 matches.
The recent home Test series against Bangladesh proved to be the turning point. Pakistan suffered another series whitewash against Bangladesh, making it the second such defeat in just two years. The disappointing performances were followed by heavy overseas defeats in Australia and South Africa, increasing pressure on the team management to make changes.
With the leadership switch, Pakistan will now hope that Babar Azam can inspire a turnaround in fortunes.
Shan Masood Remains in the Squad
Although removed as captain, Shan Masood has retained his place in Pakistan’s Test squad.
The experienced left-handed batter is expected to continue playing an important role at the top of the order while contributing his experience in the dressing room.
Retaining Masood also provides stability as Pakistan begin another demanding overseas campaign.
Four Uncapped Players Receive Call-Ups
Pakistan’s selectors have introduced fresh faces by naming four uncapped players in the touring squads.
The newcomers are:
- Ali Usman (Left-arm spinner)
- Muhammad Awais Zafar (Batter)
- Ubaid Shah (Fast bowler)
- Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (Wicketkeeper-batter)
The inclusion of young talent highlights Pakistan’s intention to build depth in their Test squad while rewarding consistent domestic performances.
Saud Shakeel has also been included as the 17th player for the England tour, subject to fitness.
Pakistan’s West Indies Tour Schedule
Pakistan will begin their overseas campaign with a two-match Test series against the West Indies.
1st Test
- Date: July 25–29
- Venue: Tarouba
2nd Test
- Date: August 2–6
- Venue: Port of Spain
The Caribbean conditions are expected to provide assistance for fast bowlers while also testing Pakistan’s batting lineup.
England Tour to Follow
After completing the West Indies series, Pakistan will travel to England for a three-match Test series.
The matches are scheduled to be played between August 19 and September 13 at:
- Leeds
- Lord’s
- Birmingham
England’s challenging conditions will provide another significant test for Pakistan’s batting unit and pace attack.
Pakistan Test Squad
Pakistan have announced a 16-member squad for the West Indies series, with Saud Shakeel joining later for the England tour if declared fit.
Squad:
- Babar Azam (Captain)
- Aamir Jamal
- Abdullah Fazal
- Ali Usman
- Azan Awais
- Imam-ul-Haq
- Khurram Shahzad
- Mohammad Abbas
- Mohammad Ali
- Mohammad Rizwan (WK)
- Mohammad Awais Zafar
- Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (WK)
- Sajid Khan
- Salman Ali Agha
- Shan Masood
- Ubaid Shah
Additional member for England tour (subject to fitness):
- Saud Shakeel
Can Babar Azam Revive Pakistan’s Test Fortunes?
Babar Azam returns to the captaincy at a crucial time for Pakistan cricket.
Although he has experienced a lean run with the bat in Test cricket recently, Babar remains one of Pakistan’s most accomplished players. His leadership experience and calm approach will now be tested against two strong opponents away from home.
Pakistan’s selectors will hope that the combination of experienced players and emerging talent helps the team bounce back after a difficult period in Test cricket.
The upcoming tours of the West Indies and England will provide an early indication of whether the leadership change can produce better performances and restore confidence within the squad.