Pakistan has announced its Playing XI for the first Test against Bangladesh, set to begin on August 21 at Pindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi.

Shan Masood will captain the team for the first time in a home series, leading a squad that combines experienced players with new talent. Abdullah Shafique will open the batting alongside Masood, while Saud Shakeel and Babar Azam bolster the middle order, with Azam known for his consistent performances.

Read more: Key Bangladesh Batter Ruled Out of Pakistan Tests

Shaheen Shah Afridi will lead the fast bowling attack, supported by Naseem Shah, Mohammad Ali, and emerging talent Khurram Shahzad. The pace quartet is expected to be pivotal on the Rawalpindi pitch, which benefits fast bowlers. All-rounder Salman Ali Agha, the team’s sole spinner, will add balance with his contributions in both batting and bowling.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan is also part of the squad, bringing his dependable glove work and batting skills to the middle order.

This Test marks the debut of Jason Gillespie as head coach of the Pakistan cricket team, adding to the anticipation of the match.

The squad announcement follows the release of all-rounder Aamer Jamal due to a persistent back injury. Jamal, who was injured while playing for Warwickshire, was initially included pending fitness clearance but has now been advised to focus on recovery at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore, according to a statement from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Pakistan playing XI for first test:

1. Abdullah Shafique
2. Saim Ayub
3. Shan Masood (c)
4. Babar Azam
5. Saud Shakeel
6. Mohammad Rizwan (wk)
7. Salman Ali Agha
8. Shaheen Afridi
9. Naseem Shah
10. Mohammad Ali
11. Khurram Shahzad

Series schedule:

• 1st Test: August 21 – 25 at Pindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
• 2nd Test: August 30 – September 4 at Pindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi