The selection of the Pakistan team for the second Test against the West Indies has surprised many in cricket circles.
According to media reports, Pakistan made four changes to the team following their defeat in the first Test. However, the decision that attracted the most attention was the omission of Mohammad Abbas.
The team management faced strong criticism for leaving out Abbas, who was Pakistan’s best bowler in the first Test. He took a total of eight wickets in the match, including an impressive five-wicket haul in one innings.
However, captain Babar Azam clarified that Mohammad Abbas is completely fit and was rested only after considering the conditions of the pitch.
Pakistan included an additional spinner, Sajid Khan, while young fast bowler Ubaid Shah was given an opportunity to make his Test debut in place of Abbas.
It is worth noting that since returning to the national team in December 2024, Mohammad Abbas has been Pakistan’s most successful fast bowler, taking 28 wickets in five Tests. His average and economy rate have also been better than those of Pakistan’s other fast bowlers.
Interestingly, Abbas has also maintained an impressive record on slow pitches, including in the UAE and Bangladesh.
Pakistan’s next Test series is scheduled to take place in England, where Mohammad Abbas’s extensive experience in county cricket could prove valuable for the team.
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