The Test series between Pakistan and Bangladesh is set to commence on August 21 in Rawalpindi, with the first match scheduled to conclude on August 25.
According to sources, the pitch at Pindi Stadium is expected to favour fast bowlers, leading Pakistan to likely field four pacers for the opening Test.
Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Mir Hamza are confirmed selections for the pace attack, with Agha Salman as the lone spinner. The fourth pace option will be decided between Khurram Shehzad and Mohammad Ali.
Pakistan’s middle order will feature Shan Masood, Babar Azam, and Saud Shakeel, batting at positions three, four, and five, respectively. In a significant move, Mohammad Huraira is likely to make his Test debut, partnering Abdullah Shafique at the top of the order.
The overcast conditions anticipated in Rawalpindi are expected to play a crucial role in the selection strategy, as Pakistan aims to capitalise on the pace-friendly surface.