On Wednesday, Pakistan made a strategic change for the second and final Test against Bangladesh by recalling leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed. This decision comes after their initial choice to deploy an all-pace attack on a slow pitch proved unsuccessful during the first Test in Rawalpindi last week.
In a surprising turn of events, Pakistan faced their first-ever Test defeat against Bangladesh on Sunday. Their decision to field a pace-only attack on a pitch that favored spin bowling led to their downfall. The Pakistani pacers struggled to make an impact, while Bangladesh’s spinners, Shakib Al Hasan and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, combined to take seven wickets. This stellar spin performance guided Bangladesh to a historic 10-wicket victory.
To address this, Pakistan has added Abrar Ahmed to their squad. Abrar, who has taken 38 wickets in just six Tests, is expected to bolster the spin options. Additionally, uncapped spin-bowling all-rounder Kamran Ghulam has been included in the squad. All-rounder Aamer Jamal has also been recalled, although his participation depends on fitness clearance, as stated by the PCB.
The second Test will also be held in Rawalpindi, starting on Friday. This move reflects Pakistan’s effort to correct their approach and adapt to the conditions to level the series against Bangladesh.
