Pakistan have made several changes to their Test squad just two days before the opening match against Sri Lanka, with two players released and fresh pace options added ahead of the Rawalpindi fixture.
According to sources, the Pakistan Test team management and selection committee released Abdullah Fazal and Ali Usman before they could join the squad. Tayyab Arif has been included as Abdullah Fazal’s replacement, while Aamir Jamal is likely to replace Ali Usman.
The team has also added two fast bowlers from the Pakistan Shaheens’ Patrons XI, Ali Shabbir and Saqib Khan. Both players have joined the national squad in Islamabad.
Green Top Pitch Influences Team Selection
Sources said head coach Mike Hesson directed the release of Abdullah Fazal and Ali Usman.
According to the reports, team management informed the players that a green-top pitch was being prepared in Rawalpindi, meaning their services were not currently required for the upcoming match.
The expected pitch conditions appear to have influenced the team’s decision to bring additional fast-bowling options into the squad.
Pakistan-Sri Lanka First Test Begins November 9
The opening Test between Pakistan and Sri Lanka is scheduled to begin on November 9, 2026, in Rawalpindi.
The latest squad adjustments come shortly before the start of the series as Pakistan finalise their playing options for the first match.