ISLAMABAD: Pakistan are gearing up for a defining stretch in their red-ball journey as they prepare to launch an ambitious summer campaign in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 cycle. With five crucial Tests lined up from May to September, the coming months could well determine whether Pakistan can finally break into the WTC final for the first time in history.
The national side is scheduled to depart from Karachi on May 3 for a two-Test series against Bangladesh, which is expected to begin on May 7. Although the Bangladesh Cricket Board is yet to formally confirm the dates, insiders indicate that both boards are working towards finalising the itinerary in line with the agreed window.
A short training camp will be held in Karachi from April 29, aimed at fine-tuning preparations ahead of the overseas assignment. However, the build-up presents a unique challenge, as several key players will be transitioning directly from Pakistan Super League (PSL) commitments, leaving limited time for red-ball adjustments and team cohesion.
As reported earlier by The News, former Pakistan captain and seasoned wicketkeeper-batter Sarfaraz Ahmed is set to take charge of the team’s coaching structure. He is expected to be supported by a familiar core group, including former fast bowler Umar Gul as bowling coach, Asad Shafiq as batting coach, and Abdul Saad as fielding coach. While the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has yet to officially announce the appointments, sources suggest that continuity in the support staff is the preferred approach heading into this critical phase.
“Coaching staff for the Test series will be announced alongside the squad, but in all probability, the same set-up will travel with the team,” a PCB official told The News. “There is a strong emphasis on stability as the team enters an important period in the WTC cycle.”
Shan Masood is expected to continue leading the side in the longest format, with selectors likely to back a blend of experienced performers and emerging talent. The selection committee faces the task of balancing workload management, recent form, and conditions-specific requirements, particularly with overseas Tests demanding adaptability.
The Bangladesh series assumes added importance as Pakistan seek to build early momentum in the WTC standings. Historically competitive in home conditions, Bangladesh have also shown marked improvement in recent years, especially in familiar sub-continental environments. Pakistan will be wary of underestimating the hosts, knowing that even a drawn series could complicate their qualification pathway.
Following the Bangladesh tour, Pakistan’s schedule remains equally demanding. The team will return home to host Australia in a three-match One-day International series, a contest that, while outside the WTC framework, will test squad depth and bench strength.
Attention will then shift back to Test cricket with one of the most challenging assignments of the cycle, a three-match away series against England. The tour will begin at Headingley from August 19 to 23, followed by the second Test at Lord’s from August 27 to 31, and the final match at Edgbaston from September 9 to 13. English conditions, traditionally testing for sub-continental teams, will require Pakistan to deliver disciplined bowling and resilient batting performances.
In total, Pakistan will play five Tests during the summer, with at least three victories likely needed to keep their WTC final hopes alive. The margin for error is minimal, particularly given the competitive nature of the current standings.
Pakistan have so far played two matches in the ongoing WTC cycle, both against South Africa at home securing one win and suffering one defeat. This mixed start places them fifth on the points table, behind Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and Sri Lanka.
With several top teams maintaining strong records, Pakistan cannot afford inconsistency. A series win against Bangladesh would not only provide valuable points but also serve as a confidence booster ahead of the sterner challenge in England.
Beyond results, the upcoming campaign also represents an opportunity for Pakistan to establish a clear identity in Test cricket. Questions surrounding batting stability, middle-order consistency, and the effectiveness of the pace attack in overseas conditions remain key talking points.
The leadership group, both on and off the field, will be under scrutiny as Pakistan attempt to translate potential into sustained success. The presence of former players in the coaching setup is expected to bring practical insight and familiarity with the demands of international cricket.
