Pakistan has strengthened its squad for the upcoming home Test series against Sri Lanka by introducing three uncapped players, while recalling all-rounder Aamir Jamal ahead of the opening match in Rawalpindi on November 9.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced four changes to the squad on Saturday, November 7, bringing in fast bowlers Ali Shabbir and Saqib Khan, right-handed batter Muhammad Tayyab Arif and Aamir Jamal . Meanwhile, Ali Usman and Abdullah Fazal have been released from the squad, although the board did not disclose the reasons.
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The three newcomers earned their maiden Test call-ups following impressive performances in domestic competitions. All were also part of the Patron's XI team that played a three-day practice match against Sri Lanka at Islamabad Club from November 4 to 6.
Tayyab has attracted attention with his consistent batting performances in the Departmental first-class tournament. Representing Kingsmen Academy, he scored 727 runs in seven matches at an average of 66.09, including three centuries.
Nineteen-year-old Ali Shabbir has earned recognition for his promising fast bowling. He has taken 22 wickets in eight first-class appearances and also claimed three wickets during the recent practice match against Sri Lanka.
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Saqib Khan secured his place after an outstanding campaign in the 2025-26 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy. Playing for Karachi Blues, he captured 47 wickets in nine matches at an average of 20.60. His best figures of seven for 34 underlined his impact during the tournament.
Meanwhile, Aamir Jamal 's return provides Pakistan with an experienced pace-bowling all-rounder. The 29-year-old has represented the national side in nine Tests, three ODIs and six T20 Internationals.
Jamal recently played a decisive role in Markhor IT Solutions' President's Trophy Grade-I final victory, taking seven wickets for 32 runs and scoring 55 runs to earn Player of the Final honours.
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He also captained Lahore Whites in the opening round of the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy Gold, contributing with both bat and ball by scoring 74 and 23 runs and taking three wickets.
Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Test series schedule First Test: November 9–13, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Second Test: November 17–21, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. The 16-member squad will be captained by Babar Azam and features a combination of established international cricketers and emerging domestic talent.
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Pakistan 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.
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