Cricket

Salman Ali Agha and Ali Usman recalled to Pakistan Test squad for Sri Lanka series

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Oct 24, 2026, 20:11 IST

Pakistan has announced a 14-member squad for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, featuring the return of Salman Ali Agha and Ali Usman alongside three debutants, while Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq remain excluded.

Salman Ali Agha and Ali Usman recalled to Pakistan Test squad for Sri Lanka series

Pakistan has confirmed its 14-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, signaling a significant shift in the team's composition. The selection sees the return of Salman Ali Agha and Ali Usman, both of whom were previously dropped midway through the tour of England in August.

The squad, which will continue to be led by captain Babar Azam, also introduces three fresh faces to the international stage. Mohammad Taha, Mohammad Suleman, and Sameer Minhas have all received their maiden Test call-ups, reflecting the selectors' focus on rewarding form from the domestic circuit.

New faces and returning veterans

The inclusion of the three debutants follows their standout performances in the President's Trophy Grade-I first-class competition. Mohammad Taha, a 26-year-old left-handed batter, has been particularly impressive, leading the run-scoring charts with 730 runs across seven matches. His campaign has been highlighted by three centuries, including a top score of 225.

Mohammad Suleman has also earned his place after a productive season, currently sitting fifth in the competition's run charts with 652 runs and three centuries to his name. Meanwhile, Sameer Minhas, a product of the Pakistan Under-19 system, earns his first senior call-up following a debut first-class season in which he accumulated 405 runs in seven matches.

Notable omissions and squad composition

While the squad welcomes back Salman Ali Agha and Ali Usman, the selection committee has opted to exclude Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq. Both players were among the seven individuals sent home during the England tour, and their continued absence marks a notable development in the team's current trajectory. It is also noted that Mohammad Rizwan has been the subject of an inquiry by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency following the seizure of his phone in London after the Lord's Test.

The full 14-member squad for the Sri Lanka series comprises Babar Azam (captain), Abdullah Fazal, Ali Usman, Arafat Minhas, Azan Awais, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ghazi Ghori (wicketkeeper), Mohammad Suleman, Mohammad Taha, Razaullah, Saad Baig (wicketkeeper), Salman Ali Agha, Sameer Minhas, and Saud Shakeel.