Pakistan Squad Uncertainties Loom Ahead of Australia Tour

• Hurraira’s exclusion raises confidence concerns.
• Wasim Jnr’s return questioned: weak Test record, no recent domestic play.
• Positives: Shahzad, Ayub, Hamza face tough Australia tour.

In a press conference today, Chief Selector Wahab Riaz revealed Pakistan’s 18-man squad for the upcoming three-match Test Series against Australia, set to take place from December 2023 to January 2024. While the squad boasts a mix of experienced players and promising talent, several decisions have raised eyebrows among cricket enthusiasts.

1. Axing of Muhammad Hurraira:

One of the most surprising decisions was the exclusion of emerging talent Muhammad Hurraira. Despite being the top run-scorer in both the 2021 and 2022 editions of the Quaid-e-Azam trophy, Hurraira didn’t get a chance to showcase his skills during the recent Sri Lanka tour and has now been dropped without a Test appearance. Critics argue that overlooking a consistent performer like Hurraira could potentially dent the young batsman’s confidence.

2. Return of Mohammad Wasim Jnr:

The inclusion of Mohammad Wasim Jnr has also raised questions, especially considering his lackluster Test record. Having played his last Test in December 2022 and securing only two wickets in two matches at a high average, Wasim Jnr’s direct entry into the Test squad without featuring in this year’s Quaid-e-Azam trophy has left many puzzled. With the likes of Faheem Ashraf and Aamer Jamal already in the squad, some critics question Wasim Jnr’s place.

3. Positives Amidst Controversies:

Despite the raised eyebrows, the squad announcement did have its positives. Domestic performers such as Khurram Shahzad, Saim Ayub, and Mir Hamza were rightfully rewarded for their consistent performances in the domestic circuit. However, the real test for these players will come during the challenging Australia tour.

4. Tough Test Awaits:

The Pakistan tour of Australia is scheduled to commence on December 6, 2023, with a four-day warm-up game against Prime-Minister’s XI. The first Test is set to begin on December 14 at Perth, followed by matches at the MCG from December 26-30 and the SCG from January 3-7. With the Australian conditions known for being challenging, fans are eager to see how the squad, including the new faces, will perform Down Under.

The cricketing community is abuzz with discussions and debates over the squad selection, and all eyes will be on the players as they aim to prove their worth in one of the most demanding cricketing environments.

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