By Alam Zeb Safi
DHAKA: Pakistan captain Shan Masood believes a versatile bowling attack and a familiar management setup will be the catalysts for success as his side begins a two-Test tour of Bangladesh in Dhaka on Friday.
The series, part of the 2025-27 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, marks a critical juncture for both nations as they look to climb a crowded points table. Pakistan currently sits in fifth place following a 1-1 home draw against South Africa last October, while Bangladesh occupies the eighth spot after a series defeat to Sri Lanka last year.
History favors the visitors, who have won 12 of the 15 Tests contested between the two sides, including a 2-0 clean sweep during their last visit to Bangladesh in 2021. However, Masood was quick to dismiss past statistics, emphasizing the challenge of local conditions.
“We are fully focused on this series and the challenge of playing Bangladesh in their own conditions,” Masood told reporters during a pre-series press conference at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. “Bangladesh are a very competitive side with quality in all departments and we are looking forward to testing ourselves.”
Pakistan has named a 16-man squad featuring a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talent. The batting remains anchored by former captain Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel, while the bowling department sees the inclusion of veteran seamer Mohammad Abbas alongside spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi and spin specialist Noman Ali.
“In Test cricket, taking 20 wickets remains the key to success,” Masood said. “We have selected a well-balanced squad. The players have experience of playing in seam-friendly as well as spin-friendly environments.”
The series also marks a shift in the backroom, with former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed taking the reins as head coach. He is joined by former teammates Asad Shafiq (batting coach) and Umar Gul (bowling coach), a move Masood believes will foster a seamless team culture.
“The management group consists of people we have played alongside for many years. They understand the players well and that familiarity helps create a positive environment,” the captain added.
Bangladesh will be desperate to improve their WTC standing after a difficult run in the format. Known for their prowess on slow, turning tracks in Dhaka, the hosts will look to exploit any rustiness in the Pakistan camp during the opening Test, which runs from May 8-12.
The tour will then move to the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium for the second and final Test scheduled for May 16-20.
Pakistan Squad:
Shan Masood (c), Abdullah Fazal, Amad Butt, Azan Awais, Babar Azam, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (wk), Noman Ali, Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Shah Afridi.
