In a significant leadership update, Pakistan has promoted Saud Shakeel to the role of vice-captain for their upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) recently announced a 17-player squad for the series, marking Shakeel’s elevation as one of the key decisions. He replaces Shaheen Afridi, who has been advised to manage his workload due to Pakistan's packed schedule, which includes nine Tests, 14 T20Is, and at least 17 ODIs before April next year.

The appointment of Shakeel alongside skipper Shan Masood is a notable move as Pakistan gears up for its first Test series under the new head coach, Jason Gillespie. This leadership change was among several surprises in the squad announcement, reflecting a strategic shift by the team management.

Notably absent from the squad are opener Imam-ul-Haq, who has been dropped, and pacers Hasan Ali and Mohammad Wasim Jr., who are sidelined due to injuries. All-rounders Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Nawaz, and spinners Noman Ali and Sajid Khan were also left out of the squad.

The selection panel has recalled fast bowlers Naseem Shah and Mohammad Ali after extended periods away from Test cricket. Additionally, young batting talents Mohammad Huraira and Kamran Ghulam have been called up, potentially making their Test debuts following strong domestic performances.

Thirteen players from Pakistan’s recent Test series in Australia have retained their spots, with the team aiming to start strong in the series against Bangladesh. The first Test is set to take place in Rawalpindi on August 21, followed by the second in Karachi on August 30.

Currently, Pakistan is ranked fifth in the ICC World Test Championship standings and will be keen to secure victories in both matches to stay in contention in the highly competitive tournament.

Pakistan Squad: Shan Masood (c), Saud Shakeel (vc), Aamir Jamal (subject to fitness), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Khurram Shahzad, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Sarfaraz Ahmed (wk), Shaheen Afridi.