For the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka in the UAE, Pakistan selectors have selected five uncapped players Mir Hamza, batsmen Haris Sohail, Usman Salahuddin and spinners Bilal Asif and Mohammad Asghar in the 16 men squad.
“We are trying our youngsters. Usman Salahuddin and Haris Sohail have been part of the squad in the last two to three series so that we can play them when the seniors retire,” Pakistan chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq said in Lahore.
“I wanted to give them opportunity in home conditions to boost their confidence. We are hopeful they can fulfil the spots left by the retirements” he added.
Pakistan’s middle-order has been left vacant after the retirement of Mishbah-ul-Haq and Younis Khan in May this year.
First test will be played from 28th September in Abu Dhabi.
Squad: Azhar Ali, Shan Masood, Sami Aslam, Babar Azam, Asad Shafiq, Haris Sohail, Usman Salahuddin, Sarfraz Ahmed (captain, wicketkeeper), Mohammad Amir, Wahab Riaz, Hasan Ali, Mohammad Abbas, Mir Hamza, Yasir Shah, Bilal Asif, Mohammad Asghar.
