Former cricketer predicts shake-up in Pakistan squad after first England Test

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has voiced his apprehensions regarding potential upheavals within the national team if they stumble in their opening Test against England, set to unfold in Multan from October 7-11. 

The team's unconventional approach for this series—naming a 15-player squad exclusively for the first Test—has sparked curiosity, as it diverges from the traditional practice of announcing a full squad for the entire series. 

While speaking on his YouTube channel, Ali interprets this decision as a strategic move contingent on the results of the initial match, indicating significant implications for the team's future based on their performance.

"If England wins the first Test match, then you will see a lot of changes in the squad for the second Test. Jason and Kirsten must have not allowed selectors to do according to their will, which is why only the squad for one Test has been announced. If Pakistan wins the opening Test, then all the shocking defeats of the past will be washed away," Basit said.

The selection of 37-year-old spinner Noman Ali in the squad has ignited conversations among cricket enthusiasts, given his impressive tally of 47 Test wickets, highlighted by a career-best performance of 7 for 70 against Sri Lanka in Colombo. 

Following their recent 2-0 defeat to Bangladesh, selectors have opted to exclude Kamran Ghulam and Mohammad Ali from the first Test squad, although both players remain in contention for future matches. 

Additionally, all-rounder Aamer Jamal, who was sidelined during the Bangladesh series due to injury, is anticipated to make his return in the upcoming first Test.

Pakistan Squad for 1st Test against England: Shan Masood (c), Saud Shakeel (vc), Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan, Naseem Shah, Noman Ali, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Shaheen Shah Afridi.