Multan to Host Both Tests as WI Reunite with Motie

It was reported that Multan would serve as the venue for back-to-back Tests when Pakistan faced the West Indies the following month. Due to ongoing renovations in stadiums across Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi in preparation for the Champions Trophy in February, the Pakistan Cricket Board found Multan to be the only viable option for hosting the two-Test series against the West Indies. England had previously played consecutive Tests in Multan the previous October due to similar upgrades, and Pakistan had managed to create dry conditions that favoured spin, ultimately securing a two-one series victory.

The West Indies squad was scheduled to arrive on January 6 and planned to engage in a three-day warm-up match in Rawalpindi against the Pakistan Shaheens. The first Test was set to commence on January 17, followed by the second on January 25. This series marked the West Indies' first Test appearance in Pakistan in over 18 years.

The team announced the inclusion of uncapped batter Amir Jangoo in their 15-member squad after his impressive century on debut in an ODI against Bangladesh. Additionally, left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie was welcomed back after missing the recent Tests against Bangladesh due to participation in the Global Super League. Fast bowler Shamar Joseph was ruled out due to shin splints and was unavailable due to commitments in the International League T20 in the UAE. Head coach Andre Coley emphasised that Motie’s return would strengthen the spin attack, while Jangoo’s consistent performance in regional cricket justified his selection.

WEST INDIES SQUAD (v Pakistan)

West Indies squad: Kraigg Brathwaite (capt), Joshua Da Silva, Alick Athanaze, Keacy Carty, Justin Greaves, Kavem Hodge, Tevin Imlach, Amir Jangoo, Mikyle Louis, Gudakesh Motie, Anderson Phillip, Kemar Roach, Kevin Sinclair, Jayden Seales, Jomel Warrican.