Aamir Jamal and Khurram Shahzad set for test debut as Pakistan announces playing XI

Shan Masood to lead the national side for the first time in an international game.

By: Mudassar Iqbal Chaudhary

ISLAMABAD: In a historic moment, right-arm medium-fast bowlers Aamir Jamal and Khurram Shahzad are poised to make their Test debut for Pakistan in the upcoming first Test of the Benaud-Qadir Trophy against Australia.

The playing XI was unveiled on Wednesday, revealing Shan Masood‘s appointment as captain for the first time in international cricket, succeeding Babar Azam, who was removed from captaincy across all three formats. The batting lineup includes Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, and Sarfaraz Ahmed (wk), offering a robust foundation.

All-rounders Salman Ali Agha and Faheem Ashraf are anticipated to play crucial roles in the challenging Australian conditions. The bowling lineup will heavily rely on star pacer Shaheen Afridi, alongside debutants Aamir Jamal and Khurram Shahzad. The first match of the three-test series is scheduled to commence on December 14 and conclude on the 18th.

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Notably, Pakistan has not won a Test on Australian soil since 1995, facing 26 losses and securing only four victories in matches against Australia. In the last five series, Pakistan has suffered whitewashes, while the Australian team enters the series in exceptional form after clinching the ODI World Cup final against India.

Pakistan squad

Shan Masood (captain), Sarfaraz Ahmed (wicket-keeper), Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Salman Ali Agha, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Aamir Jamal, Khurram Shahzad.

Australia squad

Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitch Marsh, Lance Morris, Steve Smith, Mitch Starc, David Warner

Test series schedule

First Test: December 14-18, Perth Stadium

Second Test: December 26-30, MCG

Third Test: January 3-7, SCG