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Pakistan is all set to conclude their ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 campaign with a thrilling two-match Test series against West Indies at the iconic Multan Cricket Stadium. The series begins on 17 January, with the second Test scheduled at the same venue from 25 January.
This Test series holds special significance as it marks West Indies’ return to Pakistan for red-ball cricket after a gap of 19 years. Their last Test appearance on Pakistani soil was in December 2006, where Pakistan, led by Inzamam-ul-Haq, emerged victorious in a three-match series, clinching a 2-0 win.
The two sides last faced each other in the red-ball format in 2021, in West Indies, where the two-match series ended in a 1-1 draw. This time, both teams are determined to leave a lasting impression.
A Decisive Series for Pakistan
Under the leadership of Shan Masood, Pakistan aims to build on their recent successes, including a hard-fought 2-1 home series win against England in October last year. With a focus on maintaining momentum, Pakistan’s squad has been undergoing rigorous preparations, featuring three days of intensive training in Multan.
The 15-member squad features a mix of experienced players and fresh talent, including three uncapped players:
- Kashif Ali – A promising right-arm fast bowler.
- Mohammad Huraira – A skilled right-handed batter.
- Rohail Nazir – A talented wicketkeeper-batter.
Key Players to Watch in Pakistan’s Squad
- Abrar Ahmed and Sajid Khan: These spinners are closing in on personal milestones, needing 11 and 6 wickets respectively to reach 50 Test wickets.
- Babar Azam and Imam-ul-Haq: Known for their consistent performances, these batters will be crucial in anchoring Pakistan’s innings.
- Mohammad Rizwan: As one of the world’s leading wicketkeeper-batters, Rizwan’s contributions will be vital both behind the stumps and with the bat.
West Indies Return to Pakistan: Building Momentum
Led by Kraigg Brathwaite, West Indies are enthusiastic about competing on Pakistani soil after nearly two decades. Brathwaite highlighted the importance of adapting to conditions and focusing on both scoring runs and taking 20 wickets to secure victories.
To prepare for the series, West Indies engaged in a three-day warm-up match against Pakistan Shaheens at Islamabad Club last week. The team has also completed intensive practice sessions at the picturesque Multan Cricket Stadium.
West Indies Squad Highlights
The visitors’ squad for the first Test includes several rising stars:
- Gudakesh Motie and Jomel Warrican: These spinners are expected to exploit Multan’s spin-friendly conditions.
- Jayden Seales: A promising fast bowler with the potential to trouble Pakistan’s top order.
- Tevin Imlach: The wicketkeeper will play a key role in stabilizing the middle order.
Statements from the Captains
Shan Masood, Pakistan’s Captain:
“This is our last Test series in the current ICC World Test Championship cycle, and we would like to finish it on a winning note. Every match in this format holds great importance, and we are committed to giving it our all to end the campaign with a memorable series win.”
Kraigg Brathwaite, West Indies’ Captain:
“We are very excited to be here in Pakistan. This is my first tour, and for many players, it’s their first time. Pakistan is a strong side at home, so we’re looking forward to the challenge. Putting runs on the board and taking 20 wickets will be key to winning.”
Venue and Match Timings
- Venue: Multan Cricket Stadium, Multan, Pakistan.
- First Test: 17-21 January 2025.
- Second Test: 25-29 January 2025.
The stadium is known for its scenic beauty and spin-friendly pitches, making it a challenging venue for visiting teams.
Pakistan Squad for the Test Series
- Shan Masood (Captain)
- Saud Shakeel (Vice-Captain)
- Abrar Ahmed
- Babar Azam
- Imam-ul-Haq
- Kamran Ghulam
- Kashif Ali
- Khurram Shahzad
- Mohammad Ali
- Mohammad Huraira
- Mohammad Rizwan (Wicketkeeper-Batter)
- Noman Ali
- Rohail Nazir (Wicketkeeper-Batter)
- Sajid Khan
- Salman Ali Agha
West Indies 12 for the First Test
- Kraigg Brathwaite (Captain)
- Alick Athanaze
- Amir Jangoo
- Gudakesh Motie
- Jayden Seales
- Jomel Warrican
- Justin Greaves
- Kavem Hodge
- Keacy Carty
- Kevin Sinclair
- Mikyle Louis
- Tevin Imlach (Wicketkeeper)
FAQs About Pakistan vs West Indies Test Series 2025
- When does the Test series start?
The first Test begins on 17 January 2025. - Where will the matches be played?
Both Tests will take place at the Multan Cricket Stadium. - Who is leading Pakistan in this series?
Shan Masood is the captain, and Saud Shakeel is the vice-captain. - When was the last Test series between these teams in Pakistan?
It was in 2006, and Pakistan won the series 2-0. - What is the significance of this series?
It is Pakistan’s final series in the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle. - How did Pakistan perform in their last home Test series?
They defeated England 2-1 in October 2024. - Who are the uncapped players in Pakistan’s squad?
Kashif Ali, Mohammad Huraira, and Rohail Nazir. - What is West Indies’ recent Test form?
West Indies are ranked at the bottom of the ICC World Test Championship table. - Who are the key bowlers for Pakistan?
Abrar Ahmed and Sajid Khan are critical, with milestone achievements in sight. - What preparations have West Indies made?
They played a warm-up match against Pakistan Shaheens and practised extensively in Islamabad and Multan.
Conclusion
The Pakistan vs West Indies Test series promises an exciting contest as both teams strive for supremacy in the final stretch of the ICC World Test Championship. This series is one to watch with historical significance, emerging talents, and high stakes.
