Predicted Playing XI of Pakistan in first Test against Sri Lanka

Pakistan will begin their two-match Test series against Sri Lanka on November 9 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, with both sides looking to make a strong start to their ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 campaign. The hosts will have the advantage of familiar conditions, but their final combination will be an interesting talking point after the selectors made several changes to the squad.

Babar Azam will lead Pakistan in the opening encounter. The selectors initially announced a 14-member squad before adding pace-bowling all-rounder Aamer Jamal, fast bowlers Ali Shabbir and Saqib Khan, and batter Muhammad Tayyab Arif on November 7. Ali Usman and Abdullah Fazal were released from the squad following the additions.

Pakistan are expected to rely on a balanced combination featuring experienced batters, a dependable wicketkeeper, and a pace attack suited to Rawalpindi’s conditions.

Here’s Pakistan’s Predicted XI for 1st Test:

Top order: Azan Awais, Sameer Minhas, Babar Azam

Pakistan could give young batters Azan Awais and Sameer Minhas the responsibility of opening the innings. Both are among the new-generation players in the squad, and the selectors may view the series as an opportunity to test their temperament in challenging red-ball conditions.

Sameer has particularly strong credentials heading into the contest. He impressed in his maiden first-class season, scoring 405 runs in seven matches. His inclusion gives Pakistan an option at the top of the order who has already shown promise in domestic cricket.

Babar Azam is expected to occupy the No. 3 position. The Pakistan captain remains a key figure in the batting unit and will be expected to provide stability if the visitors strike early. His experience against Sri Lanka could prove valuable in a match where building substantial first-innings totals will be important.

Middle-order: Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Taha, Agha Salman, Mohammad Ghazi Ghori (WK)

Saud Shakeel is likely to bat at No. 4, bringing patience and consistency to the middle order. He can play the role of an anchor and help Pakistan recover from early setbacks. His ability to handle spin and build long innings could also become important as the match progresses.

Mohammad Taha is another player to watch. The left-handed batter earned his maiden Test call-up after an outstanding domestic run, scoring 730 runs in seven matches in the President’s Trophy Grade-I competition, including three centuries. His selection reflects Pakistan’s willingness to reward domestic performances, and he could get an opportunity in the middle order.

Salman Ali Agha is likely to feature at No. 6. His all-round abilities provide flexibility, allowing Pakistan to strengthen either their batting or bowling depending on the match situation. He can contribute useful runs and offer an additional spin-bowling option.

Mohammad Ghazi Ghori is expected to be the first-choice wicketkeeper for the opening Test. He is part of Pakistan’s updated squad alongside Saad Baig, who provides another option behind the stumps.

Ghori’s selection would allow Pakistan to maintain a specialist wicketkeeper in the lower middle order. With the top six expected to carry most of the batting responsibility, his contributions with the bat could be valuable in extending the first innings.

Bowlers: Aamer Jamal, Arafat Minhas, Saqib Khan, Mohammad Abbas and Razaullah

Aamer Jamal’s return is a significant boost for Pakistan. The pace-bowling all-rounder has previously represented the country in nine Tests and brings valuable experience to the side. His recent domestic performances have strengthened his case for selection, particularly his seven-wicket haul and half-century in the President’s Trophy Grade-I final.

Jamal could slot in at No. 8, giving Pakistan a genuine seam-bowling option who can also contribute with the bat. His ability to extract movement and maintain discipline makes him a strong candidate for the playing XI.

Mohammad Abbas is another likely selection. The experienced pacer has been an important part of Pakistan’s Test setup and could lead the bowling attack with his accuracy and ability to exploit movement off the surface. Rawalpindi’s conditions may offer assistance to seamers, making his control particularly useful.

Saqib Khan could also make his Test debut after earning a maiden call-up. He was among the leading wicket-takers in the 2025–26 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, finishing with 47 wickets in nine matches at an average of 20.60. Those numbers make him a serious contender for a place in the attack.

Arafat Minhas to provide the spin option

Arafat Minhas could complete Pakistan’s bowling combination as the specialist spin option. His presence would give the hosts variety alongside their seamers, while Salman Ali Agha can provide additional overs if required.

Pakistan may also consider Razaullah, who is part of the updated squad, depending on the conditions and the balance the team management wants. However, a combination featuring Abbas, Jamal and Saqib would offer a mix of experience, pace and domestic form, with Arafat providing a spin option.

Pakistan’s predicted playing XI

1. Azan Awais
2. Sameer Minhas
3. Babar Azam (C)
4. Saud Shakeel
5. Mohammad Taha
6. Salman Ali Agha
7. Mohammad Ghazi Ghori (WK)
8. Aamer Jamal
9. Mohammad Abbas
10. Saqib Khan
11. Razaullah

Note: This is a predicted XI based on the announced squad and available team information. The confirmed playing XI will be announced at the toss.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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