Azhar Ali declared fit for Sydney ODI

31-year-old batsman will captain Pakistan against Australia for remainder of series

Pakistan ODI captain Azhar Ali has been declared fit to participate in the fourth ODI against Australia in Sydney on Sunday.

Azhar previously injured his hamstring during the first ODI due to which he missed the second and third game of the five-match series. All-rounder Mohammad Hafeez was the stand-in skipper for the side in Azhar’s absence.

According to Pakistan Cricket Board, the 31-year-old batsman undertook fitness test on Saturday and passed with flying colours to resume the role of captaincy from the fourth ODI onwards.

After passing a fitness test today, Azhar Ali was declared fit and will captain the team for the fourth ODI at SCG

— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) January 21, 2017

Earlier, Pakistan head coach Mickey Arthur also hinted at Azhar’s return.

“He [Azhar] had a good hit [on Thursday], and ran between wickets with the pads on,” said Arthur. “He had a good field too. We’re confident we’ll get Azhar back for Sunday.”



The South African added: “It’s a massive boost. It gives more solidarity to our top order. I’m looking forward to having him back.”

Pakistan currently trail 2-1 in the series and must win Sunday’s fourth ODI in Sydney to keep the series alive.