Pakistan have made four changes to their Test squad ahead of the two-match home series against Sri Lanka, handing maiden call-ups to three promising domestic performers.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has brought in fast bowlers Ali Shabbir and Saqib Khan, along with batter Muhammad Tayyab Arif and experienced all-rounder Aamir Jamal.
The changes come just days before the opening Test in Rawalpindi on November 9, with Pakistan looking to strengthen their squad for the home series.
Meanwhile, Abdullah Fazal and Ali Usman have been released from the squad. The PCB has not explained the reasons behind their departures.
All four incoming players recently featured for the Patron’s XI in a three-day warm-up match against Sri Lanka at Islamabad Club from November 4 to 6.
Domestic performances open the door
Aamir Jamal returns to the Test setup after producing some impressive performances in domestic cricket.
The pace-bowling all-rounder, who has already represented Pakistan in nine Tests, three ODIs and six T20Is, starred in the President’s Trophy Grade-I final with figures of 7 for 32 and a valuable 55 with the bat. His efforts helped Markhor IT Solutions lift the trophy.
Jamal also made an impact while captaining Lahore Whites in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy Gold, taking three wickets and scoring 74 and 23 in the opening round.
For Muhammad Tayyab Arif, the selection marks an important step in his career.
The right-handed batter has been rewarded for a strong first-class season with Kingsmen Academy, where he scored 727 runs in seven matches at an impressive average of 66.09, including three centuries.
Young fast bowlers get their chance
Ali Shabbir is another exciting addition to Pakistan’s pace attack.
The 19-year-old has taken 22 wickets in eight first-class appearances and strengthened his case for selection by picking up three wickets against Sri Lanka in the recent practice match.
Saqib Khan has also earned his opportunity after a standout domestic campaign.
The fast bowler played a major role in Karachi Blues’ 2025–26 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy triumph, finishing with 47 wickets in nine matches at an average of 20.60. His best figures were 7 for 34.
Both bowlers will now have the opportunity to work alongside experienced members of Pakistan’s Test squad as they push for their international debuts.
Pakistan’s 16-member Test squad
Babar Azam (captain), Aamir Jamal, Ali Shabbir, Arafat Minhas, Azan Awais, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ghazi Ghori (wicketkeeper), Mohammad Suleman, Mohammad Taha, Muhammad Tayyab Arif, Razaullah, Saad Baig (wicketkeeper), Salman Ali Agha, Sameer Minhas, Saqib Khan and Saud Shakeel.
Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Test series schedule
First Test: November 9–13, 2026
Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
Second Test: November 17–21, 2026
Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
With three uncapped players joining the squad and several domestic performers pushing for opportunities, Pakistan have added fresh competition ahead of the Sri Lanka series.
The opening Test in Rawalpindi will offer an early indication of how the selectors plan to balance youth and experience in the playing XI.
