Saim Ayub And...? 4 PAK Players Shan Masood Could Drop For 1st Test vs BAN

Huraira might play in place of Ayub [X]Huraira might play in place of Ayub [X]

After suffering a heart-breaking group-stage exit from the T20 World Cup 2024, Pakistan are gearing up for a high-voltage Test series against Bangladesh. 

Led by Shan Masood, the Men in Green will host the Tigers in a two-match series, which holds significant importance for their journey in the ongoing World Test Championship. 

According to several media reports, the ongoing four-day affair between the Shaheens and Bangladesh-A will play a crucial role in determining Pakistan's playing XI for the first Test. 

While star players like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi will be certain starters, the performance in the four-day game will decide the fate of several players battling for limited spots. 

So, before the series kicks off, let's see which Pakistani players might be benched for the first Test. 

Saim Ayub

Despite being immensely talented, Saim Ayub hasn't done justice to his potential in international cricket. The stylish southpaw has amassed only 342 runs across 23 innings at a modest average of 14.86. 

Furthermore, he was unimpressive in the ongoing four-day game against Bangladesh-A, managing only 11 runs in the first innings. 

On the other hand, his competitor, Mohammad Huraira, toiled hard his way through to a gritty 39-run knock. Despite not converting his start into a big score, Huraira's stoic technique might help him pip Ayub for the second opener's slot. 

Sarfaraz Ahmed

Sarfaraz Ahmed is known for his technique and gutsy temperament. However, he has struggled as a wicket-keeper behind the stumps of late. 

Also, given that Pakistan have a more potent keeper-batter option in Mohammad Rizwan, they won't likely consider Sarfaraz for selection. 

In fact, the former captain didn't get a chance to bat in the Shaheens' first innings against Bangladesh-A. So, we reckon he won't get a chance to represent the Men in Green in the first Test. 

Mohammad Ali

The medium pacer is hailed for his ability to hit the corridor of uncertainty more often than not. However, with Shaheen Afridi, Mir Hamza and Naseem Shah raring to go, Mohammad Ali is fighting with Khurram Shahzad for one slot. 

Given Shahzad's heroics Down Under and recent exploits in the net session, it won't be surprising if he gets the nod ahead of Mohammad Ali for the first Test. 

Abrar Ahmed

You might be surprised to see Abrar's name on this list, but Pakistan can genuinely drop the wily spinner if a seam-friendly surface is offered in Rawalpindi. 

If reports are to be believed, the pitch in Rawalpindi might be a green track offering significant assistance to the pacers. 

In such a scenario, Pakistan team management could take the risk of dropping Abrar and going with four proper fast bowlers.