Shan Masood 'agrees' to include Babar Azam in Bangladesh Test series squad

Pakistan are all set to host Bangladesh for a two-match test series in August after almost four years.

According to sources, skipper Shan Masood, head coach Jason Gillespie and the selection committee have started discussions over the Test squad.

Earlier, sources reported that the captain was not interested in including Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan and Shaheen Shah Afridi in the squad due to Pakistan's failure in the T20 World Cup 2024.

Sources said that Shah Masood wanted to give a chance to new talent to make them prepare to represent Green Shirts on the international stage.

Naseem Shah, Shahnawaz Dahani, Mir Hamza, Khurram Shahzad and Aamir Jamal were under consideration for selection in the bowling field.

Saud Shakeel, Abdullah Shafique, Salman Ali Agha and former skipper and wicketkeeper-batter Sarfaraz Ahmed were also considered for the final squad.

However, sources said, Masood has agreed to include Babar Azam in the national squad against Bangladesh.

Sources further said that the first match between Pakistan and Bangladesh is likely to be played on August 25.

The second Test is expected to take place in the first week of September, they added.

However, the final announcement regarding the squad and dates will be announced by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) soon.