Why did Mohammad Abbas & Khurram Shahzad miss second WI vs PAK Test?
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Mohammad Abbas was star with the ball for Pakistan in the first match against West Indies.
Pakistan are currently touring the West Indies for a two-match Test series. They had a poor outing in the first match, where the hosts recorded a 90-run win. This was their only second win in 11 Tests, and they took a 1-0 unbeatable lead.
After losing the opening match, Pakistan made quite a few changes for the series decider, which is underway at the Port of Spain. The selection attracted attention as two fast bowlers, who featured in the opening Test and made great impact, were left out of the playing XI.
Pakistan made big changes, especially to their bowling unit, replacing Aamer Jamal, Khurram Shahzad, and Mohammad Abbas with Awais Zafar, Sajid Khan, and Ubaid Shah. Among these Zafar and Ubaid are making their Test debuts.
Why is Mohammad Abbas not playing 2nd WI vs PAK Test?
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Abbas’ omission attracted attention, especially after his impressive outing in the series opener. The experienced seamer finished with match figures of 8/85, including 5/22 in the second innings. However, the team management prioritised the conditions over recent performance while finalising the playing XI for the second Test.
Pakistan captain Babar Azam said Abbas was left out because of the conditions, with the team opting to field spinner for the second Test. Speaking at the toss, he said:
[On leaving out Abbas despite him being Pakistan’s leading wicket-taker in the series] No, no. I told you that because of the conditions. The condition demand is different, so the condition is like different, so I put one spinner on.
Why is Khurram Shahzad not playing 2nd WI vs PAK Test?
As for Khurram Shahzad, Pakistan did not provide any clarification regarding his exclusion from the squad. According to the team composition, the omission seems to be part of the tactical alteration. He had a decent outing in the first match, where he picked four wickets.
Pakistan would be keen to register a win here in the second match, and avoid the series whitewash. They have registered 8th straight losses in the format.
What changes did Pakistan make for the second Test against West Indies?
Pakistan left out fast bowler Abbas, opting to strengthen their spin attack, and Khurram Shahzad may be dropped; it’s not confirmed. Also, Shan Masood and Aamer Jamal were dropped.
Has Pakistan explained why Khurram Shahzad was dropped?
No. The team management has not officially explained why Shahzad missed the second Test.
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Anubha Anandita Pathak is a sports enthusiast with a strong passion for cricket and basketball, shaped by her experience as a district-level basketball and kabaddi player. A loyal Golden State Warriors supporter, she closely follows Stephen Curry’s style of play. With on-ground reporting experience covering the Indian Super League and Karnataka’s hockey circuit, Anubha brings both perspective and passion to her storytelling.