Salman Ali Agha's narrative within the Pakistan Test team unfolds as a tale of resilience and extraordinary performances, defying initial criticisms that tagged him as a beneficiary of Babar Azam's favoritism.

His induction into the team in July 2022 for the Sri Lanka tour faced skepticism, with detractors questioning his selection despite an impressive first-class track record – comprising 5000 runs, including 16 centuries and 5 half-centuries, alongside 105 wickets.

The debut against Sri Lanka showcased Salman's mettle, contributing a substantial 62 runs and a crucial wicket in the second Test. The real crucible emerged during England's much-anticipated tour to Pakistan after a 17-year hiatus, where Salman's notable knock of 53 in Rawalpindi and consistent performances in Multan solidified his growing importance in the team.

The third Test against England brought Salman into the spotlight again. Despite an early loss of six wickets, his partnership with captain Babar Azam, along with his own contribution of 56, played a pivotal role in helping Pakistan reach 300.

The New Zealand series marked a significant chapter in Salman's career, with his maiden Test century and three crucial wickets showcasing his all-round skills.

Embarking on the new WTC cycle against Sri Lanka, Salman played a vital role. His aggressive 83 in the first Test and a stunning 132 in the second not only contributed to a series whitewash but also earned him the well-deserved Player of the Series award. 

As doubts loomed about Salman's adaptability to pace in the Australian conditions, he silenced critics with consecutive 50s in challenging situations. During the MCG Test, Salman displayed remarkable resilience in the fourth innings.

In the last Test match of the series at SCG, facing the challenge of losing half the team before reaching 100 runs, he forged a stunning partnership with Mohammad Rizwan, contributing a crucial half-century that played a pivotal role in achieving a respectable total in the first innings.

Salman Ali Agha's trajectory, from initial skepticism to becoming a linchpin in the Test team, highlights the significance of patience in player development. His success in diverse conditions underscores the value of accumulated first-class experience, emphasizing that building and settling a team is a gradual process that requires time and unwavering perseverance.