As Pakistan gears up for the second Test against Australia, the possibility of three changes in the team lineup is on the horizon. Wicketkeeper Sarfaraz Ahmed and all-rounder Faheem Ashraf might make way for Mohammad Rizwan and spinner Sajid Khan. This reshuffling comes in the aftermath of Fawad Alam’s exclusion from the series due to an injury.
The second Test between Pakistan and Australia is set to commence in Melbourne, starting on Monday. In this match, the inclusion of Sarfaraz Ahmed seems less likely, creating an opportunity for Mohammad Rizwan to take on the wicket-keeping duties. The decision to introduce Rizwan aligns with the team management’s strategy to optimize the playing eleven.
Additionally, the all-rounder Faheem Ashraf might be sidelined, paving the way for spinner Sajid Khan to be featured in the final eleven. The introduction of Sajid Khan would add a spin dimension to the team’s bowling attack and could prove crucial in Melbourne’s conditions.
The third change is anticipated in the form of Fawad Alam’s replacement. Khurram Shahzad is likely to step in for Fawad Alam, who was ruled out of the series due to a fracture. This alteration in the batting order aims to reinforce Pakistan’s middle order and maintain stability in the lineup.
On the flip side, if Pakistan fails to secure victory in the second Test, all-rounder Shadab Khan might be given a break in the third Test, allowing him some rest. The team management is considering giving Shadab Afridi a break as continuous cricket has taken a toll on his fitness. The decision reflects the management’s focus on ensuring players are well-rested and ready for future challenges.
As the team management evaluates different combinations, the changes are aimed at optimizing performance, especially considering the demanding nature of back-to-back Test matches. The potential adjustments in the playing eleven underscore the strategic thinking of the team management and their commitment to fielding the best possible lineup for each match.
As the series progresses, these changes present an opportunity for emerging players to showcase their talent and contribute to Pakistan’s quest for success in the Test series against Australia.
