REPORT SUGGESTS PAKISTAN LIKELY TO INTRODUCE SAIM AYUB IN THE FINAL TEST AGAINST AUS
Ahead of the final Test against Australia in Sydney, Pakistan is contemplating adjustments to their playing XI. Following a setback in the second Test, where Cummins showcased a remarkable 10-wicket performance, Pakistan is still seeking a Test victory on Australian soil.
Enduring a streak of 16 consecutive Test losses in Australia, the last triumph dates back to the 1995-96 season under the captaincy of the legendary pacer, Wasim Akram. As they approach the upcoming Test, the Pakistani team aspires to revive the spirit of bygone eras and break free from this extended period of Test defeats.
To bolster their efforts, a PTI report indicates that the Pakistan team is likely to include the 21-year-old debutant opener, Saim Ayub, in the upcoming third and final Test against Australia. Despite being uncapped at the international level, Ayub has showcased his skills in 14 first-class matches for Karachi, boasting an impressive record with an average of 46.47. His contributions include three half-centuries and three centuries, underscoring his potential as a promising batsman.
Additionally, the report hints that Pakistan team management is considering the inclusion of Saim Ayub due to criticism surrounding Imam-ul-Haq’s perceived slow batting, which has drawn unfavorable attention within Pakistan’s cricket circles. This suggests a strategic decision to introduce Ayub as a potential alternative in the lineup.
Aamer Jamal made a significant impact, contributing three crucial wickets in the first inning and dismissing Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, and Pat Cummins.
As Pakistan strives to break their winless streak in Australia, the upcoming Test in Sydney holds particular significance for David Warner. This match marks his final appearance in the longest format before retiring.
The Pakistan squad against Australia includes:
– Shan Masood (c)
– Abdullah Shafique
– Babar Azam
– Imam-ul-Haq
– Mohammad Rizwan
– Saim Ayub
– Sarfaraz Ahmed
– Saud Shakeel
– Aamer Jamal
– Agha Salman
– Faheem Ashraf
– Mohammad Nawaz
– Mohammad Wasim Jr
– Sajid Khan
– Abrar Ahmed
– Hasan Ali
– Khurram Shahzad
– Mir Hamza
– Shaheen Shah Afridi
– Noman Ali
