The stage is set for an enthralling battle as Pakistan prepares to lock horns with Australia in the much-anticipated first Test of the Benaud-Qadir Trophy at Perth Stadium on 14 December. The clash between these cricketing powerhouses promises an intriguing spectacle with both sides eyeing a crucial victory in the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25.
Currently leading the ICC World Test Championship points table, Pakistan commenced their campaign with a victorious outing against Sri Lanka earlier this year. Positioned at sixth in the ICC Men’s Test team rankings, Pakistan aims to continue their winning momentum and bolster their standing against Australia.
On the other hand, reigning Test champions Australia are gearing up for their second series of the WTC cycle. Ranked fifth on the table, the Aussies seek redemption after a mixed performance in their series against England. With a 2-0 defeat in their last Test tour to Australia in 2019-20 and a recent 1-0 series victory for Australia in Pakistan, the upcoming series holds immense significance for both teams.
In a historic moment, Shan Masood assumes the captaincy mantle as Pakistan’s 35th Test skipper, leading the team for the first time in this crucial encounter. Adding to the milestone aura, Babar Azam marks his 50th Test appearance, poised to showcase his excellence as the fourth-ranked batsman in the ICC Test rankings. Joining the ranks of talent, Shaheen Shah Afridi, ranked fifth in the Test bowlers rankings, spearheads Pakistan’s bowling attack.
As the Benaud-Qadir Trophy Test series unfolds, the squad boasts notable performers Saud Shakeel and Abdullah Shafique, the leading run-scorers for Pakistan in the ongoing WTC cycle, supported by the consistent contributions of Salman Ali Agha.
Despite losing the services of the injured Abrar Ahmed, the team remains optimistic following extensive preparations, including a four-day first-class match against the Prime Minister’s XI and rigorous training sessions in Perth. Sajid Khan, the replacement for Ahmed, joins the squad for the first Test.
In a bid to strengthen their lineup, Pakistan introduces debutants Aamir Jamal and Khurram Shahzad in the playing XI alongside seasoned campaigners. Shan Masood, in a pre-match media address, emphasized the team’s focus on playing attractive cricket while focusing on the process, highlighting the side’s potential and determination to compete against the best.
The cricketing world awaits the action-packed series opener, anticipating a riveting clash between these cricketing giants, offering an exhilarating display of skill, resilience, and strategic prowess.
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