Can Pakistan Bounce Back with These Key Changes in the 2nd Test Squad vs Bangladesh?

After a disappointing performance in the first Test against Bangladesh, Pakistan finds itself in a must-win situation to draw the series. The first Test saw Pakistan’s bowling attack falter, with Bangladesh amassing a formidable total of 565. Pakistan’s inability to execute a cohesive plan and erratic bowling contributed to their downfall. However, there’s hope for a turnaround if key changes are made to the squad. 

Abrar Ahmed in place of Khurram Shahzad

Pakistan’s decision to go without a frontline spinner in the first Test proved costly. Khurram Shahzad, a seamer, struggled to make an impact on the flat Rawalpindi pitch. Pakistan’s bowling attack lacked variety, and they missed the services of a quality spinner who could have troubled the Bangladeshi batters.

Enter Abrar Ahmed, a leg-spinner who has already made a name for himself in Test cricket. Abrar burst onto the scene with a sensational debut against England in Multan in 2022, where he became just the fourth bowler in Test history to take five wickets in the first session of his debut match. 

Replacing Khurram Shahzad with Abrar Ahmed would not only add variety to Pakistan’s bowling attack but also give them a genuine wicket-taking option in the middle overs. Abrar’s inclusion could be the game-changing move Pakistan needs to level the series.

Kamran Ghulam in place of Mohammad Ali

Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif expressed disappointment with Pakistan’s decision to play four seamers on a pitch that offered little assistance to pace bowlers. The absence of a proper spinner was glaring, and Pakistan paid the price for it. To rectify this mistake, Pakistan should consider bringing in Kamran Ghulam for Mohammad Ali.

Kamran Ghulam offers Pakistan much-needed balance with his all-round abilities. He can contribute with the bat in the lower order and also bowl left-arm spin, adding another dimension to Pakistan’s attack. His accurate lines and variations could pose a significant challenge to the Bangladeshi batters, particularly on a pitch that may assist spin in the later stages of the match.

Pairing Kamran Ghulam with Abrar Ahmed would give Pakistan a well-rounded spin-bowling duo that can exploit any turn on offer. This change would not only strengthen Pakistan’s bowling attack but also provide depth to their batting lineup.

Mohammad Huraira in place of Salman Agha

One of the most significant changes Pakistan should consider is replacing Salman Agha with the promising Mohammad Huraira. Salman Agha struggled with the bat in the first Test, scoring just 19 and 0 in his two innings. His inability to contribute significantly with the bat left Pakistan vulnerable in the middle order.

In contrast, Mohammad Huraira has been waiting for his opportunity to shine at the international level. With an impressive first-class average of 53, Huraira has consistently performed in domestic cricket. His recent form is particularly encouraging, as he scored a magnificent 218 against a Bangladesh HP-XI side in Darwin, Australia. This innings demonstrated his ability to handle pressure and play long, match-defining knocks.

Huraira’s inclusion in the second Test could provide Pakistan with the stability they desperately need in the middle order. His confidence and form make him a strong candidate for his maiden Test cap, and Pakistan should seize this opportunity to unleash his potential.

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