Why did Mohammad Abbas & Khurram Shahzad miss second WI vs PAK Test?

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, the visitors 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.

Why are Mohammad Abbas and Khurram Shahzad not playing 2nd WI vs PAK Test?

Pakistan captain Babar Azam said Mohammad Abbas was left out because of the conditions, with the team opting to field an extra spinner for the second Test. It was a decision that was made in consideration of the condition of the surface and not the performance of Abbas, as the player took eight wickets in the previous match.

As for Khurram Shahzad, although he did not play, Pakistan did not provide any clarification regarding Khurram’s exclusion from the squad. According to the team composition, the omission seems to be part of the tactical alteration, but the coaching and management of the Pakistan team did not confirm that.

Abbas’ omission attracted attention 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, as Pakistan secured victory over the West Indies. However, the team management prioritised the expected conditions over recent performance while finalising the playing XI for the second Test.

Pakistan’s choice shows they expect the pitch to become more spin-friendly later in the match. The tourists opted for an extra spinner, suggesting they have changed their bowling line-up, even though Abbas performed well in the opening Test. At the same time, it is still unknown why the team left out Khurram Shahzad, as the team management did not announce any official explanations.

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