Chief Selector Wahab Riaz announced the squad of the Pakistan test team for the Australia tour to play 3 test matches Series. Some new faces are back in the team.
Shan Masood Takes Charge as Captain, Fresh Faces Join
Chief Selector Wahab Riaz unveiled Pakistan’s Test team for the Australia tour, marking his debut selection since assuming office. Shan Masood, appointed captain after Babar Azam’s resignation, will lead the squad for the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle.
Surprise Exit: Haris Rauf Steps Back
In his inaugural press conference, Riaz shared unexpected news of fast bowler Haris Rauf withdrawing from the series due to fitness concerns. Riaz expressed disappointment, citing Rauf’s late decision as potentially impacting Pakistan’s performance.
Rising Stars: Saim Ayub and Khurram Shahzad Shine Bright
Emerging talents, Saim Ayub and Khurram Shahzad earned their first call-ups. Ayub, a left-handed opener, showcased stellar performance in the recent Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, while Shahzad, a promising right-arm fast bowler, impressed selectors with his consistent form.
Returning Players and Their Potential Impact
Faheem Ashraf, Mir Hamza, and Mohammad Wasim Jnr make a comeback. Riaz highlighted their past contributions, expressing optimism about their potential role in bolstering Pakistan’s strategy.
Preparations for Australian Challenge
Riaz reassured the squad’s readiness for Australia’s challenging conditions. Highlighting Saim Ayub’s inclusion, he praised the young opener’s batting prowess, anticipating a significant boost to Pakistan’s batting lineup.
Training Camp and Additional Players
The team plans a training camp in Rawalpindi from November 23 to 28. A few additional players like Arshad Iqbal, Shadab Khan, and others received invitations to the camp for extensive preparation sessions.
Pakistan test team Squad and Test Schedule
The Pakistan test team 18-member squad, captained by Shan Masood, includes established stars such as Babar Azam, Hasan Ali, and Shaheen Afridi.
- Shan Masood (C)
- Aamer Jamal
- Abdullah Shafique
- Abrar Ahmed
- Babar Azam
- Faheem Ashraf
- Hasan Ali
- Imam Ul Haq
- Khurram Shahzad
- Mir Hamza
- Mohammad Rizwan
- Wasim Jr
- Noman Ali
- Saim Ayub
- Salman ALI Agha
- Sarfaraz Ahmed
- Saud Shakeel
- Shaheen Afridi
The series comprises three Tests, scheduled from December 14 to January 7, spanning Perth, Melbourne, and Sydney.
Pakistan tour of Australia
1 Test: December 14-18, Perth Stadium
2 Test: December 26-30, MCG
3 Test: January 3-7, SCG
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Pakistan’s Test Squad Ready for Australia Tour
Wahab Riaz revealed Pakistan’s team led by Shan Masood for the Australia series. The unexpected exit of Haris Rauf and the inclusion of newcomers like Saim Ayub and Khurram Shahzad make the lineup unique. The team preps up in Rawalpindi for the challenging tour starting December 14.
