News by “Sana Ullah“
Ahead of the second Test in Melbourne on December 26, Pakistan has revealed a modified squad of 12 players as they seek to level the three-Test series, currently trailing 1-0 against Australia.
After a challenging performance in the first Test, Sarfaraz Ahmed, who managed only seven runs, has been replaced by Mohammad Rizwan, who showcased his batting prowess with an impressive 50-run innings in the two-day match leading up to the Melbourne Test.
The squad changes also include the exclusion of all-rounder Faheem Ashraf, with pacers Mir Hamza and Hasan Ali being drafted into the lineup.
The confirmed Pakistan squad for the second Test comprises Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood (c), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Afridi (vc), Hasan Ali, Mir Hamza, Aamir Jamal, and Sajid Khan. The final playing XI will be announced tomorrow.
Pakistan faced a selection challenge in the bowling department due to the unavailability of spinner Noman Ali, diagnosed with acute appendicitis. The replacement, all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz, was named by the national selection committee led by Wahab Riaz.
Injuries have also impacted the pace department, with Khurram Shahzad ruled out of the series due to a stress fracture in his left 10th rib and an abdominal muscle tear. Debutant during the Perth Test, Shahzad claimed five wickets.
Mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed, who complained of discomfort in his right leg after the practice match against PM XI, will not participate in the Melbourne Test. Off-spinner Sajid Khan, called up as Abrar’s replacement before the first Test, remains part of the squad as Pakistan aims for a comeback after their loss in the series opener.
