Saud Shakeel Faces Race Against Time Ahead of Pakistan’s Test Tours

Report: Imran Sohail

Pakistan middle-order batter Saud Shakeel is facing a fitness challenge ahead of the national team’s upcoming Test tours of the West Indies and England.

The left-handed batter is currently undergoing rehabilitation, with medical staff continuing to monitor his recovery. His availability for selection remains uncertain as team management evaluates his fitness before the start of the overseas assignments.

Saud Shakeel has been an important member of Pakistan’s Test setup in recent years, and any prolonged absence could require adjustments to the squad ahead of the two major tours.

According to reports, selectors may consider including an additional middle-order batter in the ongoing red-ball training camp in Lahore if Shakeel is unable to regain full fitness in time.

Meanwhile, wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan has also been managing a fitness concern. As a precaution, Rohail Nazir has joined the red-ball training camp currently taking place at the LCCA Ground in Lahore.

The camp is focused on preparing players for the challenging overseas schedule, with participants taking part in match simulations and training sessions designed to improve red-ball performance.

Pakistan is expected to depart for the West Indies in mid-July, where the team will play a four-day warm-up fixture before the Test series begins.

Following the West Indies tour, Pakistan will travel to England for a three-match Test series, providing the team with another important opportunity in the international cricket calendar.

Team officials are expected to continue monitoring player fitness over the coming weeks before finalizing the squad for the upcoming tours.