Mirpur, May 6, 2026: Pakistan’s left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Afridi has said the national side is fully prepared for a demanding Test season as it targets qualification for the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 final.
Addressing a media conference, the 26-year-old stressed that Pakistan is entering a crucial phase of its Test calendar, describing the upcoming assignments as a test of consistency, adaptability, and long-term planning.
“We are looking forward to the challenge of the Test series. Tests are very important for us, and this is a long Test season for us — perhaps for the first time like this. We are fully prepared and ready to give our best,” Afridi said.
He noted that while home teams generally enjoy an advantage in familiar conditions, success in Test cricket ultimately depends on preparation and execution.
“Every team is strong in its home conditions, but what matters most is how well you prepare and execute,” he added.
Afridi, who also leads Pakistan in limited-overs formats, emphasized that the team’s focus extends beyond the immediate series, with the broader objective of reaching the World Test Championship final.
“We are not only focused on this Test series but also on the ICC World Test Championship. Our target is to reach the final, and for that we must play our best cricket consistently,” he said.
Looking ahead to the upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh, Afridi acknowledged the host team’s strength on spin-friendly pitches but expressed confidence in Pakistan’s preparations for varied conditions.
“Bangladesh have previously done well on spin-friendly tracks, and every team uses home advantage. We have prepared accordingly — both for spin conditions and for a green wicket — and we are ready for every challenge,” he said.
The first Test will be played at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium from May 8 to 12, followed by the second at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium from May 16 to 20.
Experienced batter Shan Masood will lead the side, which includes a blend of senior players and uncapped talent. The squad features several new faces as Pakistan looks to build depth for the long Test cycle.
Pakistan squad for Bangladesh Tests: Shan Masood (c), Abdullah Fazal, Amad Butt, Azan Awais, Babar Azam, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (wk), Noman Ali, Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel, and Shaheen Afridi.
