Pak Shaheens depart for Eng tour today

Pakistan Shaheens' head coach Imran Farhat has termed the upcoming England tour a significant step toward building a strong future for Pakistan cricket. Addressing the media at National Stadium on Tuesday, Farhat highlighted that the tour blends emerging young players with experienced seniors — a combination he believes will yield long-term benefits.

The 18-member Pakistan Shaheens squad is set to depart for England on Wednesday, where they will play two three-day matches and three 50-over games. The primary aim, Farhat emphasized, is to develop high-quality backups for the national team by exposing promising domestic performers to international conditions.

"This tour is a golden opportunity to groom future stars," Farhat said. "Our focus is on strengthening the top order and identifying standout talent in spin and pace bowling. We'll also work on helping players adjust to English conditions."

Farhat further revealed that similar international exposure is being planned in countries like Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand.

Speaking at the media briefing, several Shaheens squad members — Ali Zaryab, Aazan Owais, Shamyl Hussain, and Ubaid Shah — also shared their excitement and aspirations.

Meanwhile, the Shaheens' training camp concluded on Tuesday with a practice match at the Hanif Mohammad Regional Cricket Academy Ground.

The tour will run from July 17 to August 6. The squad is captained by Saud Shakeel, who brings the experience of 19 Test matches. Other notable names include Sajid Khan (12 Tests), Mir Hamza (7 Tests), and Musa Khan (1 Test).

Full 18-member squad:

Saud Shakeel (Captain), Sajid Khan, Mir Hamza, Musa Khan, Aazan Owais, Muaz Sadaqat, Ali Zaryab, Haider Ali, Mohammad Suleman, Umair bin Yousuf, Shamyl Hussain, Rohail Nazir (Wicketkeeper), Mushtaq Ahmed, Shahid Aziz, Ubaid Shah, Faisal Akram, Mehran Mumtaz, Mubasir Khan

Team Management:

Head Coach: Imran Farhat

Bowling Coach: Rehan Riaz

Fielding Coach: Mohtashim Rasheed

Analyst: Usman Hashmi

Physio: Ali Sufiyan.

Click here to read article