Pakistan announced 12-man squad for the upcoming Boxing Day Test at the MCG, featuring a strategic mix of players with a focus on pace. The selectors, considering both injuries and form, have made notable changes to the lineup.
The squad alterations were necessitated by a series of factors, most notably the unfortunate injury setback to promising pacer Khurram Shahzad.
Despite an impressive debut in Perth, Shahzad succumbed to a stress fracture in his ribs and an abdominal tear, ruling him out of contention for the remainder of the series. This unforeseen setback prompted the selectors to reevaluate the squad composition.
Additionally, experienced campaigner Sarfaraz Ahmed and all-rounder Faheem Ashraf, who played pivotal roles in the Perth Test, find themselves omitted from the XII for the MCG encounter. The selectors, keeping a keen eye on both injuries and player form, have opted for a strategic reshuffling.
The infusion of fresh blood into the squad brings in Sajid Khan, Mohammad Rizwan, Hasan Ali, and Mir Hamza. Rizwan, in particular, is expected to take on the wicketkeeping responsibilities in the absence of Sarfaraz Ahmed.
This recalibration aims to fortify the team’s resilience and adaptability, crucial elements for success in the challenging Australian conditions.
After facing a stern challenge in the initial stages of the opening Test in Perth, where Australia ultimately dominated and secured a resounding 360-run victory, the Men in Green are determined to bounce back.
Pakistan’s last Test victory in Australia dates back to 1995, and the team is keen on rewriting history in the upcoming MCG Test.
The announced 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, Aamer Jamal, and Sajid Khan.
This carefully curated lineup signifies a strategic balance, with a mix of seasoned campaigners and emerging talents, tailored to meet the challenges posed by the formidable Australian team on the iconic MCG pitch.
As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the Boxing Day Test, all eyes will be on this reinvigorated Pakistani squad as they seek to turn the tide and make a strong statement in the series.
