Pakistan has announced its squad for the upcoming two-match series against the West Indies, scheduled to take place in Multan from January 17-21 and January 25-29. The selection includes seven alterations; notably, star fast bowler Shaheen Afridi remains unavailable for the longest format of the game. Additionally, Naseem Shah has also been excluded from the squad for this series.

This decision may be influenced by the forthcoming Champions Trophy, where both Afridi and Shah are expected to play pivotal roles. The tournament will be hosted in Pakistan, marking the return of an ICC event to the nation after more than twenty years.

Afridi has not participated in Pakistan's Test lineup since being rested during the series against England in October of the previous year. He was subsequently left out of the Tests against South Africa as well.

Moreover, Mohammad Abbas, Aamir Jamal, and Mir Hamza have been rested, while Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Ali, and uncapped fast bowler Kashif Ali have been added to the squad. These modifications provide Pakistan with an opportunity to explore new bowling options in preparation for more demanding matches ahead.

In terms of spin bowling, Pakistan has bolstered its lineup by recalling seasoned off-spinner Sajid Khan and the highly regarded mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed. Both spinners are expected to complement the team's left-arm spinner, Noman Ali, as Pakistan aims to enhance its spin attack for the series.

The opening positions have also undergone changes, with Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Huraira being brought back to replace the injured Saim Ayub and the underperforming Abdullah Shafique. While Shafique has faced challenges in maintaining consistent performances, both Imam and Huraira are anticipated to provide stability at the top of the batting order.

Additionally, wicketkeeper-batter Haseebullah Khan has been ruled out due to a hand injury, leading to the inclusion of former U19 captain Rohail Nazir as his replacement, thereby adding depth to Pakistan's wicketkeeping options.

Pakistan squad for the West Indies Tests:

The team comprises Shan Masood as captain, Saud Shakeel serving as vice-captain, along with players Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Kashif Ali, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Huraira, and Mohammad Rizwan, who plays the role of wicketkeeper/batter. Additionally, Noman Ali, Rohail Nazir, also a wicketkeeper/batter, Sajid Khan, and Salman Ali Agha are included in the lineup.

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