Melbourne, December 25, 2023:
The Pakistan cricket team is gearing up to face the Australian challenge in the Melbourne Test. After losing the first Test of the series in Perth, Pakistan, led by Shan Masood, is determined to showcase its best performance at the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Pakistan will play its 11th Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Despite losing the Perth Test by 360 runs, standout performances from debutant Amir Jamal and Khurram Shahzad were noteworthy. Amir Jamal’s exceptional bowling figures of 6 wickets for 111 runs marked the best debut performance by a Pakistani bowler.
Unfortunately, Khurram Shahzad is ruled out of the Test series due to a stress fracture, while Ibrar Ahmed is unavailable for selection in the second Test. Off-spinner Sajid Khan, who joined the squad as a replacement for Ibrar Ahmed, is included in the 12-member squad for the Melbourne Test along with Hasan Ali and wicketkeeper Rizwan Sarfraz.
Rizwan Sarfraz will replace Sarfaraz Ahmed as the wicketkeeper. The final eleven will be announced on the day of the match.
Speaking about the team composition for the second Test, Captain Shan Masood stated that while he believes in minimal changes, practical wisdom dictates some decisions. Unfortunately, the team has to cope with English conditions along with injuries. The absence of Khurram due to injury is a setback, and Mir Hamza is brought in as his replacement, given his good domestic performance. The team expects Mir Hamza to replicate Khurram’s control and length.
Regarding the inclusion of Hasan Ali and Rizwan, Shan mentioned, “Hasan Ali has replaced Faheem Ashraf because of his vast experience and impressive Test record. Unfortunately, his career has been affected by injury, but his Test statistics remain impactful.” Shan also explained that the decision to bring in Rizwan instead of Sarfaraz is a strategic move based on the belief that Rizwan can contribute with the bat in challenging situations.
Sajid Khan, included as a specialist spinner, is expected to play a crucial role. Shan mentioned that due to rain, the team couldn’t assess the pitch properly, and the final decision on the frontline spin option will be made in the morning after observing the conditions.
Shan Masood emphasized that the team identified weaknesses from the Perth Test and acknowledged the need to work on various aspects to compete against teams like Australia. While recognizing the significance of the Melbourne Test in the World Test Championship cycle, Shan stressed the importance of performing well in this series and the ongoing World Test Championship.
The Pakistan cricket team for the Melbourne Test comprises: Shan Masood (Captain), Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (Wicketkeeper), Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi (Vice-Captain), Hasan Ali, Mir Hamza, Amir Jamal, and Sajid Khan.