Pakistan’s Refreshed Lineup for the Upcoming MCG Boxing Day Test Against Australia
Pakistan announce 12 players for the second Test against Australia
Pakistan has announced a 12-player squad for the crucial Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), with a strategic mix of bowling options. The squad features one primary spinner and four seamers, reflecting a tactical shift in response to recent injuries and form.
Despite a promising debut in Perth, pacer Khurram Shahzad suffered a stress fracture in his ribs and an abdominal tear, sidelining him for the remainder of the series. Sarfaraz Ahmed and Faheem Ashraf, who both played in Perth, have not been included in the twelve for the MCG encounter.
The team sees the inclusion of Sajid Khan, Mohammad Rizwan, Hasan Ali, and Mir Hamza. With Sarfaraz absent, Rizwan is set to wear the wicketkeeping gloves.
The first Test in Perth saw Pakistan initially challenging Australia, but the hosts eventually dominated, securing a resounding 360-run victory. Pakistan, striving to break their long-standing winless streak in Australia since 1995, faces a formidable challenge.
The 12-man team for the second Test includes: Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood (captain), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wicketkeeper), Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Afridi (vice-captain), Hasan Ali, Mir Hamza, Aamer Jamal, and Sajid Khan.
