After Babar Azam resigned from his position as Pakistan’s red-ball captain after the ODI World Cup 2023 fiasco, Shan Masood assumed leadership. The southpaw’s first task will be challenging as Pakistan prepares to go to Australia for a three-match Test series.
Shan Masood revealed the batting order for the Test match against Australia and said that Pakistan’s red-ball team is a well-oiled machine. The 34-year-old praised Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq for their opening partnership and named Babar the team’s best batsman.
“Our test team has operated as a cohesive one. For over a year, Imam ul Haq and Abdullah Shafique have been the starting lineup for Pakistan. They have performed numerous times. I have primarily played at number three in both domestic and international cricket since Azhar Ali’s retirement. This is the top three in our goals,” Masood stated on Wednesday in a Lahore press conference.
“Our greatest batter is Babar Azam. His batting position, number four, would remain unoccupied. The best hitter on the squad is how you build your team,” he continued.
Saim Ayub is a promising future leader: Shan Masood
Saim Ayub, a 21-year-old batter, has been selected for the 18-man team for the forthcoming tour of Australia. He bats aggressively in all formats and finished as the second-highest run scorer in the Caribbean Premier League earlier this year. His strike rate in first class cricket is 70, and in List A cricket it soars to 106.85. Masood claimed that the child received recognition for his aggressive style of play in domestic cricket.
“In domestic cricket, Sami Ayub has proven to be an exciting prospect by being rewarded for his attacking style.” If necessary, he’ll have an opportunity, Masood stated.
Starting on Wednesday, December 6, Pakistan will take against Prime Ministers XI in a four-day warm-up match in Canberra. On Thursday, December 14, in Perth, the first Test will take place.
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