• Source:JND
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In a surprise move, Pakistan has recalled experienced opener Imam-ul-Haq to their Test squad for the upcoming series against the West Indies. The decision comes after regular opener Saim Ayub was ruled out of the series due to an ankle injury.

Imam-ul-Haq, who has been out of favor with the selectors in recent times, will now have the opportunity to revive his Test career and provide stability to Pakistan's top order.

Notably absent from Pakistan's revised Test squad is fast bowler Shaheen Afridi, who remains sidelined after being rested during the series against England.

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Despite the return of several players to the team, Afridi's continued omission suggests that the team management is prioritizing his rest and recovery, likely with a view to preserving his fitness for future assignments.

The selectors have also included a third specialist spinner in Abrar Ahmed, indicating that spin pitches would be prepared. West Indies are playing Tests in Pakistan after 18 years.

Both Tests would be held in Multan with the first beginning from January 17.

The selectors also rested pace bowlers Naseem Shah, Muhammad Abbas, Mir Hamza and all-rounder Aamer Jamal who recently played in the Test series in South Africa that won the series 2-0 to qualify for the World Test Championship final.

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Pakistan Squad: Shan Masood (Capt), Saud Shakeel (VC), Babar Azam, Muhammad Rizwan, Imam ul Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Muhammad Huraira, Rohail Nazir, Noman Ali, Sajid Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Muhammad Ali, Khurrun Shahzad and Kashif Ali.