Pakistan has opted for a strategic alteration in their lineup for the Boxing Day Test against Australia, announcing a 12-member squad that excludes veteran wicketkeeper Sarfaraz Ahmed. Shan Masood’s team, looking for a turnaround after a heavy defeat in the first Test, will introduce Mohammad Rizwan in place of Sarfaraz for the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground clash.
Australia, following their dominant performance in the first Test, has decided to stick with the same playing XI for the upcoming match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Pakistan, compelled to revise their squad due to injuries to Noman Ali and Khurram Shahzad, has not only addressed these issues but also made a tactical choice by bringing in Rizwan to bolster the middle-order.
Captain Shan Masood explained the decision, stating, “We think Rizwan is ready, and we can give Sarfaraz a little bit of a break to recoup and come back.” He emphasized that the move was more tactical, focusing on optimizing player performance according to the prevailing conditions.
The alteration follows Sarfaraz Ahmed’s subpar performance in the first Test against Australia, where he struggled to make an impact with the bat. Facing a Mitchell Starc inswinger, Sarfaraz was bowled through the gates in the first innings and succumbed to the same bowler in the second innings.
Pakistan, aiming for an improved display, will pin their hopes on Mohammad Rizwan to deliver in the middle order as they seek to level the series in Melbourne. The decision to drop Sarfaraz Ahmed is part of a calculated strategy to adapt to the conditions and field the best-suited players for the upcoming challenge.
