Five-wicket star Mohammad Abbas dropped for key Test

PORT OF SPAIN: Pakistan’s team selection for the second Test against the West Indies has triggered widespread debate after experienced fast bowler Mohammad Abbas was left out of the playing XI despite delivering a match-winning five-wicket haul in the previous Test.

The unexpected decision has raised eyebrows among cricket experts and fans, with many describing it as one of the most unusual selection calls in Pakistan’s recent Test history.

Abbas was Pakistan’s standout performer in the opening Test at Tarouba, finishing with eight wickets across the match, including a brilliant five-wicket haul in one innings. Despite his efforts, Pakistan suffered a 90-run defeat, largely due to a disappointing batting display.

However, instead of retaining their leading bowler, the team management opted to hand Ubaid Shah his Test debut for the series-deciding second match.

Pakistan captain Babar Azam defended the move, saying the decision was based on pitch conditions and part of four changes made to the playing XI.

According to Babar, the management believed the conditions in Port of Spain required a different bowling combination, and Abbas was rested with those factors in mind.

The decision has nevertheless sparked criticism, particularly because bowlers who claim five wickets in an innings are rarely omitted from the very next Test.

Cricket statisticians pointed out that this is believed to be the first time since 1980 that a Pakistan bowler has been dropped immediately after taking a five-wicket haul in a Test innings.

The last comparable case dates back to Pakistan’s 1979-80 tour of India, when Ehteshamuddin was left out after claiming five wickets in an innings to make room for the returning Imran Khan.

The debate intensified after Ubaid Shah endured a difficult start to his Test career. On the opening day of the second Test, the young pacer conceded 56 runs in just nine overs, making him Pakistan’s most expensive bowler of the day despite picking up a wicket.

His costly spell has prompted fresh questions over whether the management made the right call by overlooking Abbas, whose experience and consistency have long been valued in red-ball cricket.

With the series on the line, Pakistan’s selection strategy is now under intense scrutiny. Whether the bold gamble pays off could have a significant impact on the outcome of the Test and may shape discussions over team selection in the months ahead.