KARACHI: Pakistan are likely to make three changes for the second Test against Australia, which begins in Melbourne on December 26.
Injured pacer Khurram Shahzad, wicketkeeper Sarfaraz Ahmed and all-rounder Faheem Ashraf won’t be part of the XI, according to sources.
Sarfaraz, who only scored seven runs during the first Test while also fluffing couple of chances behind the stumps, will be replaced by Mohammad Rizwan and Faheem, who scored 14 runs in Perth and only claimed one wicket, is likely to make way for spinner Sajid Khan. Meanwhile, one of Mir Hamza and Hasan Ali will replace Khurram.
It must be noted that Khurram has been ruled out of the remaining Tests of the series due to a stress fracture in his left 10th rib, as well as an abdominal muscle tear, according to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
The right-armer made his debut during the Perth Test and claimed five wickets during the match.
Pakistan suffered a heavy loss against Australia in the first game of the three-Test series. After being set a target of 450 in the fourth innings, Pakistan folded for a measly 89 in 30.2 overs, losing the match by 360 runs.
The visitors were dismissed for 271 in their first innings in reply to Australia’s 487.
Pakistan were also penalised for maintaining a slow over-rate against Australia in the first Test in Perth. The visitors received a fine equating to 10% of their match fee, and two ICC World Test Championship points were deducted from their total.
Pakistan will now play a two-day practice match against Victoria from December 22-23 before the second Test.
