Pakistan has named its squad for the forthcoming Test series, bringing in two uncapped batters and retaining four seam options.
The seam-heavy composition is the clearest signal in the list. The selection panel has previously favoured a third spinner for home conditions, and the departure from that suggests it expects surfaces with more carry than the venues offered last season.
Both uncapped batters come off strong domestic seasons in the longer format. One has opened throughout his first-class career, which gives the panel a second option at the top without reshuffling the middle order.
The captain said the final eleven will be settled after a look at the pitch.