TRINIDAD: Pakistan is set to adopt a batting-heavy approach for the opening Test against the West Indies, with team management reportedly planning to field seven specialist batters as they finalize the playing XI ahead of the series opener.
According to team sources, initial discussions have begun on the lineup, with the management aiming to strengthen the batting order while maintaining a balanced bowling attack for the first Test, which begins on Saturday at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad.
The proposed lineup is expected to include Azan Awais, Imam-ul-Haq, Shan Masood, Babar Azam, and wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan. All-rounder Salman Ali Agha is also likely to feature, with the team expected to use him as the fifth bowling option while adding depth to the batting unit.
Sources further indicated that Aamer Jamal and experienced pacer Mohammad Abbas are expected to retain their places in the side, providing balance with both bat and ball.
There is also a strong possibility that left-arm spinner Ali Usman will make his Test debut. One of Khurram Shahzad or Mohammad Ali is expected to complete the pace attack, depending on the final assessment of conditions.
Team management has reportedly advised the bowlers to focus on improving their batting contributions, reflecting Pakistan’s intention to maximize runs from the lower order. The final playing XI, however, will depend on players’ fitness and last-minute evaluations before the match.
Meanwhile, preparations at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy suggest conditions could favor seam bowlers. According to sources, curators have prepared a pitch with brown grass rather than lush green coverage, a surface expected to provide pace and bounce while remaining suitable for batting as the match progresses.
The first Test marks the beginning of Pakistan’s highly anticipated series against the West Indies, with both teams eager to make a strong start. Pakistan will be hoping that its strengthened batting lineup provides the platform for a winning performance in Caribbean conditions.
