Pakistan is set to embark on an exhilarating cricketing journey as they gear up to face Australia in a thrilling three-match Test series in Australia. The intense battles for supremacy will unfold at three iconic venues – Perth, Melbourne, and Sydney – from December to January as part of the highly anticipated third World Test Championship cycle.
The highly anticipated tour will kick off on December 14 at Perth Stadium, marking Pakistan’s maiden Test appearance at the venue. The cricketing extravaganza will then reach its pinnacle during the Boxing Day Test, to be held at the revered Melbourne Cricket Ground from December 26 to 30. The series will culminate with the third and final match at the historic Sydney Cricket Ground on January 3, 2024. Pakistan boasts a respectable record at both venues, having secured two victories each in their previous encounters at the MCG and SCG.
In preparation for the series, Pakistan will engage in a crucial four-day warm-up match, allowing them to acclimate to the unique Australian conditions. This essential groundwork aims to ensure a competitive and enthralling contest between the two teams.
Pakistan captain Babar Azam, known for his remarkable batting prowess, will lead his side on his third Test tour of Australia. Having previously set foot on Australian soil in December 2016 and November 2019 under different captaincies, Azam brings with him a wealth of experience. He has already amassed 278 runs, including a century, in five Tests against Australia. Notably, during the 2019 tour, Azam displayed his brilliance with a century in the second innings of the first Test in Brisbane and followed it up with an impressive 97 in Adelaide.
Joining Azam in Pakistan’s formidable lineup is the rising star Naseem Shah, who made his international debut in Brisbane in November 2019. Since then, Shah has established himself as a key asset in Pakistan’s bowling unit across all formats, claiming an impressive tally of 80 wickets in 42 matches.
Pakistan’s previous visit to Australia saw them excel in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, culminating in a commendable finalist finish. Now, they aim to carry their winning momentum into the longer format, seeking to clinch the prestigious Benaud-Qadir Trophy.
The Benaud-Qadir Trophy, introduced in 2022, commemorates the bilateral Test series between Australia and Pakistan. In its inaugural edition, Pat Cummin’s Australian side emerged victorious, securing a 1-0 series win after a captivating clash in Lahore.
Mark your calendars and get ready for an enthralling cricketing spectacle as Pakistan and Australia lock horns in this high-stakes battle for cricketing supremacy Down Under.
Schedule:
- 14-18 Dec: First Test at Perth Stadium
- 26-30 Dec: Second Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground
- 3-7 Jan: Third Test at Sydney Cricket Ground