Here are Pakistan’s five key players for the upcoming Test series in Australia.
AZHAR ALI
The newly-appointed Pakistan captain arrives in Australia with fond memories after his unbeaten 205 at the MCG. As the touring skipper.
Ali will be a highly-prized wicket for the Australians and he’ll be expected to lead by example for the younger players in his team. Has a big challenge ahead of him in his first series leading his country.
BABAR AZAM
The 25-year-old is a proven quantity in white-ball cricket but has yet to fully realise his potential in the red-ball game.
An average of 35.28 from 21 Tests with just one hundred is an underwhelming return but if Pakistan’s top order can see off the threat of Australia’s new ball pace battery he could shine. Warmed up for the Test with 157 against Australia A in Perth before making 63 against the CA XI.
NASEEM SHAH
The teenage tearaway showed his pace against Australia A in Perth and is pushing for a Test debut. Dennis Lillee has likened the 16-year-old to Pakistan great Waqar Younis and Australia are reportedly preparing for Shah to debut at the Gabba.
Inexperience will be his biggest hurdle, having played just seven first-class matches. Plenty of excitement about Shah though and if he gets on a roll could be hard to keep down.
MOHAMMAD ABBAS
With 66 wickets at 18.86 from the 29-year-old’s first 14 Tests, it is clear Abbas is a real threat with the new ball. Will be looked to lead the attack in his first tour Down Under.
Claimed 17 wickets in two Tests against Australia in the UAE last year and will be eager to put the hosts’ batsmen on the back foot at the Gabba.
YASIR SHAH
The legspinner took eight wickets at 84 last time Pakistan played a Test series in Australia in 2016-17. Shah is crucial element in the tourist’s bowling line-up as he can tie down an end and allow the fast bowlers to work in shorter spells.
If Australia can get at him and upset this rhythm it will create a big headache for Ali and company in regards to their bowling plans.
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