Sarfaraz Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf dropped for the Boxing Day test against Australia as Pakistan announce their XII

Pakistan made a few changes in their playing XI, Mohammad Rizwan and Mir Hamza comes in the 12-member squad.

Pakistan suffered a massive defeat against Australia in the first test played at Optus Stadium in Perth. Australia crushed Pakistan by a massive 360 runs margin and took a 1-0 lead in the 3-match series. Pakistan batting line-up had a poor game in Perth and they were bundled out for just 89 runs in the second innings while chasing a huge 450 runs.

Melbourne Cricket Ground is set to host the iconic Boxing Day test between Australia and Pakistan. Pakistan cricket management announced 12-members squad to take on Aussies who are running in confidence. Mohammad Rizwan has been called in as the 12th member of the squad and replaced Sarfaraz Ahmed. Wicket-keeper Sarfaraz scored just 7 runs in Perth test.

Sarfaraz – Faheem out, Rizwan – Hamza in

Mohammad Rizwan was dropped from the test to accommodate Sarfaraz Ahmed under new captain Shan Masood. Sarfaraz looked out of touch while facing pace bowlers, which prompted Pakistan team management to make a big change in their team for the next game. Mohammad Rizwan scored an unbeaten half-century for Pakistan in their practice match played against Victoria XI.

All-rounder Faheem Ashraf is also out of the 12-members squad. Faheem had a forgettable game in Perth. Faheem leaked runs at 5.41 economy rate in both innings and could only take one Australian wicket. He also looked poor with the bat and scored just 14 runs in both innings. Mir Hamza will be replacing him in the 12-members squad for Boxing Day test match.

Sajid Khan is also in the 12-members team for the next test. Sajid was called in as Abrar Ahmed’s replacement who was initially looked at as Noman Ali’s backup. Pakistan suffered several injury issues in their camp ahead of the Boxing Day game at MCG in Melbourne. Pakistan will be looking to bounce back in the second test. Final test match of the series will be played in Sydney.

Pakistan 12-member squad for Boxing Day test

Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Shan Masood (C), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Agha Salman, Hasan Ali, Mir Hamza, Sajid Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Aamer Jamal

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