Pakistan picks 3 uncapped players in 16-man squad for Sri Lanka Tests

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has included three uncapped players in its squad for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, signalling a fresh approach as the team prepares for an important assignment at home.

Pakistan initially announced a 14-member squad in October, but the latest changes have expanded the group to 16 players ahead of the opening Test. Babar Azam will continue to lead the side.

3 players earn maiden Test call-ups for Pakistan

Batter Muhammad Tayyab Arif and fast bowlers Ali Shabbir and Saqib Khan have earned their maiden Test call-ups following impressive performances in domestic cricket.

Tayyab, a right-handed batter, has enjoyed an outstanding start to his domestic career. Representing Kingsmen Academy, the 19-year-old scored 727 runs in seven matches at an average of 66.09, including three centuries. His consistency with the bat has earned him an opportunity to demonstrate his abilities at the international level.

Shabbir, also 19, has emerged as a promising fast-bowling prospect. He has claimed 22 wickets in eight first-class matches and took three wickets during the practice game against Sri Lanka. His performances have attracted attention as Pakistan look to build depth in their pace attack.

Saqib has also been rewarded for a productive domestic campaign. He played a key role in Karachi Blues’ title-winning run in the 2025–26 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, taking 47 wickets in nine matches at an average of 20.60. His best figures of seven for 34 highlighted his ability to trouble batters consistently.

Aamir Jamal returns to Pakistan’s Test squad

Alongside the three uncapped players, Pakistan have recalled Aamir Jamal, an experienced pace-bowling all-rounder who has represented the country in nine Tests, three ODIs and six T20Is.

Jamal recently delivered a strong performance in the President’s Trophy Grade-I final, taking seven wickets for 32 runs and scoring 55 to help Markhor IT Solutions secure the title. He also contributed with both bat and ball while captaining Lahore Whites in the opening round of the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy Gold.

Meanwhile, Ali Usman and Abdullah Fazal have been released from the squad following the latest changes.

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Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Test Series: Schedule and Venues

The two-match series will begin at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on November 9, with the second Test scheduled at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium from November 17 to 21.

Both matches are part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle. Pakistan will be keen to improve their position after a difficult run of results, while Sri Lanka will aim to challenge the hosts in their own conditions.

Pakistan’s 16-member squad for Sri Lanka Tests

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, Saud Shakeel.

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