Pakistan has named two Test debutants to their starting XI for the 14th of December, the first match of their ICC World Test Championship series in Perth.
Pakistan undergoes a ring of changes under the leadership of Shan Masood in his inaugural Test match. Both right-arm fast bowler Khurram Shahzad and all-rounder Aamir Jamal are scheduled to make their debuts.
One year ago, Jamal debuted for Pakistan in an international match against England. More recently, he represented the country at the Asian Games. Meanwhile, it will be Khurram’s inaugural appearance for his nation.
All-rounder Faheem Ashraf is making his Test debut after an almost year-long absence, while Sarfaraz Ahmed remains Pakistan’s preferred wicketkeeper over Mohammed Rizwan.
Pakistan have maintained the leadership duo of Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq, with the latter exhibiting commendable form during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup that just concluded.
Babar Azam, a former captain, will maintain his position at number four batting. Salman Ali Agha has been assigned the spin responsibilities in place of the injured Abrar Ahmed, who was ruled out for the visitors.
The fast-bowling formation will be under the direction of Shaheen Afridi and Faheem Ashraf for support.
Pakistan playing XI against Australia:
Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood (c), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Sarfaraz Ahmed (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Aamir Jamal, and Khurram Shahzad.
