Pakistan's preparations for the upcoming Test tours of the West Indies and England have been hit by injury concerns, with middle-order batter Saud Shakeel emerging as a major doubt for the series due to ongoing fitness issues.
Sources said the left-handed batter is currently undergoing rehabilitation, while the team management and medical staff continue to closely monitor his recovery before making a final decision on his availability.
According to sources close to the team management, Saud Shakeel is recovering from a fitness problem that has placed his participation in the national Test squad in doubt.
Medical experts are overseeing his rehabilitation process, and further assessments will determine whether he is fit enough to travel with the team for the important overseas assignments. His uncertain status has prompted selectors to begin considering backup options for the middle order.
Selectors explore replacement options
With concerns growing over Shakeel's fitness, selectors are reportedly preparing contingency plans in case he is unable to recover in time.
Sources said a replacement middle-order batter may be added to the ongoing red-ball training camp in Lahore if the left-hander fails to regain full fitness before squad finalization.
The situation could lead to multiple changes in Pakistan's Test squad as officials continue to review player fitness reports.
Rizwan, Dhani also facing fitness issues
Pakistan's injury concerns are not limited to Saud Shakeel.
Sources revealed that wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan and fast bowler Shahnawaz Dahani are also dealing with injuries ahead of the West Indies and England tours.
The recurring fitness setbacks have complicated selection plans and increased pressure on team management as preparations intensify.
As a precautionary measure, wicketkeeper-batter Rohail Nazir has been included in the red-ball training camp as a potential replacement for Rizwan. His inclusion provides selectors with an additional option while they await updates on Rizwan's fitness condition.
Officials are expected to make final decisions after reviewing the latest medical assessments in the coming days.
Pakistan's red-ball camp underway
Pakistan's red-ball training camp for the West Indies and England Test series is currently in progress in Lahore.
Players are participating in scenario-based practice sessions and match simulations at the LCCA Ground as part of preparations for the demanding tour schedule.
Sources said the camp will also feature a scenario match at the LCCA Ground as the coaching staff evaluates player readiness and match fitness.
Busy Test schedule ahead
Pakistan is expected to depart for the West Indies on July 13 to begin preparations for the Test series. The team will first play a four-day warm-up match starting on July 18 before entering the two-match Test series in Trinidad and Tobago.
The first Test is scheduled from July 25 to 29, while the second match will take place from August 2 to 6.
Following the West Indies assignment, Pakistan will travel to England for a three-Test series.
The tour will begin on August 19 at Headingley in Leeds, followed by the second Test at Lord's on August 27. The third and final Test will be played at Edgbaston in Birmingham starting on September 9.
