Pakistan’s upcoming Test squad for their challenging tours of the West Indies and England is highly likely to be trimmed down to a 16-member contingent, according to reliable sources.
While initial discussions within the selection committee revolved around naming a 17-member squad, latest reports suggest that high-level consultations are underway to freeze the final list at 16 players to keep the touring party lean and focused.
To achieve this combination, the selectors are reportedly planning to drop one specialist batsman from the initial draft. A key talking point in the selection meeting is the inclusion of middle-order batter Saud Shakeel. Sources indicate that Shakeel might find it difficult to secure a berth for the West Indies leg of the tour. However, a proposal is strongly being considered to fly him out subsequently for the three-match Test series against England.
The final strategy and player combinations are currently being fine-tuned, and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is expected to officially unveil the Test squad in the coming days.
