In a notable shake-up orchestrated by Pakistan’s new chief selector Wahab Riaz, two burgeoning talents have been named in the 18-member squad for the forthcoming Test tour of Australia. Saim Ayub, a mere 21 years of age, and Khurram Shahzad, 23, are poised to don the national colors, as they ride the wave of their domestic cricket triumphs into the international arena.
Saim Ayub, a left-handed opening batsman, has seized the attention of the cricket fraternity through a series of commanding performances in the Quaid-e-Azam trophy 2023-24. Representing Karachi Whites, he amassed a staggering 553 runs across four matches, a haul that included a spectacular double century propelling his team to victory. Ayub then carried his impeccable form into the Pakistan Cup, the country’s one-day domestic competition, where he emerged as the preeminent run-scorer.
Chief selector Wahab Riaz, in his first major move since assuming the role, could hardly overlook Ayub’s sterling displays. “Saim Ayub has been added to the squad after the extraordinary domestic season he has had this year,” commented Riaz. “His inclusion will strengthen our solid batting line-up.” Ayub’s seamless transition from the domestic to the international stage could hold the key to revitalizing Pakistan’s top order.
Pacer Khurram Shahzad’s has equally forced his way into the international setup with his domestic exploits. Shahzad concluded the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy with a haul of 36 wickets at an impressive average of 20.31 in eight matches. He sustained his wicket-taking spree in the Pakistan Cup, claiming 13 scalps at an average of 16.62. His consistent ability to breach batting defenses makes him an exciting prospect for Pakistan’s bowling attack.
Moreover, Pakistan’s bowling arsenal will be further bolstered by the return of Mir Hamza and Mohammad Wasim Jr., as well as the versatile all-rounder Faheem Ashraf. Ashraf makes his way back into the fold after last featuring in a Test against England in late 2022. Collectively, the trio has shown commendable performance on the domestic front, with Hamza snagging 32 wickets at an average of 20.88, indicating his readiness for the ardors of Test cricket.
“The squad has been assembled keeping in mind the challenging Australian conditions,” Riaz elucidated. “We have added more pace bowling resources to the team to ensure that the management can be flexible with the team combinations in all three Test matches.”
The tour comprises a trio of Test matches and serves as Pakistan’s second venture in the World Test Championship cycle of 2023-25. The team’s prior engagement witnessed them vanquish Sri Lanka in an away series, positioning them favourably atop the WTC table. Riaz voiced his optimism regarding Pakistan’s trajectory under the championship umbrella: “We hope that the team can carry this momentum ahead in Australia as well. We have tried to ensure that the team has all relevant resources to find success on Australian soil.”
Prior to their departure for Australia, the Pakistani contingent will convene for a preparatory camp from November 23 to 28 in Rawalpindi. From there, they will journey to Lahore and take to the skies, bound for the series opener in Perth on December 14.
Pakistan stands on the cusp of a rigorous yet potentially rewarding tour down under, bolstered by a blend of nascent talent and seasoned campaigners. With a determined squad and astute selections, the team embarks on a quest not just for victories, but also for a continued ascent in the ranks of international Test cricket.