WI vs PAK 2026: Abdullah Shafique Replaces Injured Abdullah Fazal in Pakistan Test Squad For Series Remainder
Saud Shakeel has been added to Pakistan's Test squad for the remainder of the West Indies tour, replacing the injured Abdullah Fazal. Shakeel, 30, will join the team for the second Test against West Indies at Queen's Park Oval from August 2-6, 2026. He remains a vital part of the batting lineup, looking to build on his strong Test record.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has drafted right-handed opening batter Abdullah Shafique into the men’s Test squad for the ongoing series against the West Indies and the upcoming tour of England. The 26-year-old replaces uncapped left-handed batter Abdullah Fazal, who was ruled out of both assignments after sustaining an injury ahead of the opening Test in Trinidad. Middle-order batter Saud Shakeel has also been added to the setup as an additional replacement option. Is Pakistan vs West Indies 1st Test 2026 Live Telecast Available on PTV Sports?.
Injury Forces Late Squad Adjustment
Fazal’s setback came on the eve of the first Test against the West Indies at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy. The medical panel advised necessary recovery time, ruling him out of the two-match fixture in the Caribbean as well as the subsequent three-Test series in England.
In response, national selectors recalled Shafique to solidify the top order alongside experience-focused options. The addition of Saud Shakeel provides the team management with further depth across the middle overs during a demanding red-ball schedule.
Abdullah Shafique Returns to Test Setup
Shafique, who made his Test debut in 2021, brings proven international top-order experience back to the side. Having represented Pakistan in 24 Test matches with five centuries to his name, his inclusion provides immediate stability following the unexpected top-order vacancy. He will join the squad in Trinidad ahead of the remainder of the series before the touring party travels to the United Kingdom. Pakistan Squad for West Indies and England Tours Announced: Babar Azam Reinstated As Test Captain; Shaheen Shah Afridi Dropped.
The ongoing two-Test series in the West Indies marks the start of a crucial red-ball leg for Pakistan. Following the conclusion of the second Test at the Queen's Park Oval in August, the team will travel to England for a three-match Test series running from 19 August to 13 September 2026.
All five upcoming fixtures form part of the 2025–27 ICC World Test Championship cycle, making squad availability and top-order consistency central to Pakistan’s campaign.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 26, 2026 04:21 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
