In a blow to Pakistan’s Test squad, leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed is set to miss the opening two matches of the upcoming three-Test series against Australia. The setback occurred on the third day of Pakistan’s encounter with Prime Minister’s XI when Ahmed, citing discomfort in his right leg, was forced to leave the field.
Sources indicate that left-arm spinner Sajid Khan has been chosen as Ahmed’s replacement for the first two Tests. The decision was influenced by the Australian team’s substantial left-handed batting lineup, with Khan now preparing to join the squad in Perth at the earliest opportunity.
The final day’s play in the four-day game between Pakistan and Prime Minister’s XI at Manuka Oval ended prematurely due to adverse weather conditions. The match concluded as a draw, with Prime Minister’s XI finishing the previous day at 367-4, thanks to an unbeaten century by Matt Renshaw (136 not out, 337 balls, 8x4s, 1×6).
With the first Test against Australia scheduled for December 14 at Perth Stadium, Pakistan faces a challenge in reshaping their bowling lineup. The subsequent Tests will be held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground from December 26 to 30 and the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3 to 7, 2024.
As the cricketing world awaits this high-stakes series, the absence of Abrar Ahmed adds an element of unpredictability to Pakistan’s strategy against the formidable Australian side.
