Strategic Move: All-Pace Attack
For the first Test against Bangladesh starting next week in Rawalpindi, Pakistan has chosen to field an all-pace attack. This decision comes as frontline spinner Abrar Ahmed has been released to join the Shaheens squad for a four-day game against Bangladesh A.
Key Players and Injuries
Naseem Shah returns from a year-long injury hiatus, joining Shaheen Shah Afridi, Khurram Shehzad, Mir Hamza, and Mohammad Ali in the pace lineup. Aamer Jamal, a standout performer in Pakistan’s previous series, is uncertain for the first Test due to a lower back issue.
Historical Context and Tactical Implications
This marks only the second time since September 1995 that Pakistan will play a home Test without a specialist spinner. The last instance was in December 2019 in Rawalpindi. The decision reflects an expectation that the Rawalpindi pitch will favor fast bowlers with pace and bounce, deviating from the traditionally spin-friendly conditions.
Spin Duties and Team Balance
With Abrar Ahmed unavailable, Salman Ali Agha will handle the spin duties. Despite the absence of a frontline spinner, Jason Gillespie, Pakistan’s Test coach, has expressed confidence in the team’s balance, citing the quality of both their pace and spin options.
Upcoming Matches
Abrar Ahmed and Kamran Ghulam will rejoin the Test squad for the second Test in Karachi after their stint with the Shaheens.