Shan Masood, Pakistan’s new Test cricket captain, outlined the batting plan for the upcoming Australia tour. He praised Imam ul Haq and Abdullah Shafique for their stable partnership as opening batsmen, intending to keep them in their roles. With Azhar Ali retired, Masood discussed his experience at number three in cricket and indicated it’s a key part of their strategy.
Masood ensured Babar Azam, Pakistan’s best batsman, would hold the number four spot, emphasizing the need to maintain Azam’s position. He also praised Saim Ayub’s aggressive talent and hinted at giving Ayub an opportunity during the tour.
The Pakistan squad for the Australia Tests includes Shan Masood (captain), Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Khurram Shahzad, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Noman Ali, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Sarfaraz Ahmed (wk), Saud Shakeel, and Shaheen Shah Afridi.
The Australia tour involves a four-day match against PM’s XI at Manuka Oval, Canberra, and three Test matches at Perth Stadium, Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), and Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) from December to January.
