Fakhar, Iftikhar, Shadab face axe
Pakistan players warm up during a practice session ahead of their third Test against England at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Monday. PHOTO: AFP
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is poised to make significant changes to the squad for the highly anticipated white-ball series against Australia later in November. In a bold move signaling a new chapter for Pakistan cricket, Mohammad Rizwan is set to be appointed as the national team's captain.
Rizwan's versatility has been on full display, whether he's opening the innings in T20s or playing match-saving knocks in Tests. His attitude epitomizes the fighting spirit of Pakistan cricket, and as captain, he aims to instill that same resilience in the next generation of cricketers. Previously, he has led the international team on two occasions, both against New Zealand in Test matches in 2020 and 2021.
Star batter and former white-ball captain Babar Azam, along with pacers Naseem Shah and Shaheen Afridi, are set to make their return in the upcoming series after being left out of Pakistan's Test squad following the loss to England in the series opener. The selection committee has also finalized the squads for the Australia tour, with newcomers Mehran Mumtaz and Sufiyan Muqeem expected to receive their first call-ups.
In addition to Rizwan's captaincy, the PCB is expected to drop some high-profile players, paving the way for fresh talent to prove themselves on the international stage.
Among those likely to be omitted are Iftikhar Ahmed, who has faced scrutiny from the PCB and hasn't featured for Pakistan since the T20 World Cup match against India in June. Shadab Khan, another notable name, last played a 50-over match in 2023 and has been absent from T20 cricket since June. Despite strong domestic performances, he has struggled to regain the selectors' confidence. Fakhar Zaman, reportedly dealing with fitness issues, is also expected to be a notable absentee.
It is worth noting that the Pakistan cricket team will leave for Melbourne on October 29. Upon arrival, they will conduct training sessions at the renowned Melbourne Cricket Ground on November 1 and 2, with an optional session on November 3. The first ODI match against Australia is scheduled for November 4.
The selection committee, which includes Aqib Javed, Azhar Ali, Aleem Dar, Asad Shafiq, and Hasan Cheema, is actively evaluating potential players for the upcoming three ODIs and three T20 matches in Australia.
Meanwhile, fast bowlers Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf have already started their preparations for the Australia tour. Both pacers are currently undergoing intense practice sessions in Islamabad, where they have been seen bowling in the nets. Before starting their bowling drills, Shaheen and Haris also engaged in rigorous running exercises, focusing on their fitness.
Pak team begins preparations for Pindi Test
The Pakistan Test squad held its first practice session at the Pindi Stadium today, gearing up for the crucial third Test match against England which starts from 24 till 28 October.
The training session, which lasted three hours, saw the Pakistan players working under the guidance of head coach Jason Gillespie. Meanwhile, England's squad opted for complete rest ahead of their daily practice sessions scheduled to start tomorrow.
In preparation for the series-deciding match, captain Shan Masood and Gillespie closely inspected the pitch alongside head curator Tony Hemming. The pitch, currently being treated to reduce moisture with the help of fans, is expected to favor spinnersa strategy Pakistan aims to capitalize on, reminiscent of the spin-friendly Multan Test.
Sources reveal that the pitch is being tailored to support spin bowling, as Pakistan plans to play to their strengths in the upcoming encounter. With the series locked at 1-1, spin could be pivotal for the home side as they look to secure a series victory.
On the logistical side, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced the sale of tickets for the third Test, with a special offer of free entry for the premium category on the first day. Ticket purchases will be required for the remaining four days of the match.