In the heart of the Australian cricketing summer, Pakistan finds itself on the shores of the land Down Under, geared up for a riveting 3-match Test series commencing on December 14, 2023, in the picturesque city of Perth. As the anticipation builds, the spotlight is not only on the battleground but also on the strategic decisions behind the team selection, particularly the choice in the wicketkeeper-batsman department.
Ahead of the inaugural test, the newly appointed skipper, Shan Masood, and the team management faced a crucial decision involving two seasoned wicketkeeper-batsmen—the veteran Sarfaraz Ahmed and the experienced Muhammad Rizwan. The selection conundrum gripped the Pakistan fans, as the skipper ultimately chose to entrust the gloves to Sarfaraz, sidelining Rizwan for the opening match.
Sarfaraz Ahmed, a stalwart and former captain, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the side. His tenure at the helm instilled resilience and a fighting spirit within the team, making him a seasoned campaigner in the longer format. The decision to opt for Sarfaraz reflects the captain’s reliance on his veteran player and his ability to handle pressure situations.
The exclusion of Muhammad Rizwan from the playing XI did not go unnoticed, triggering a wave of discontent among fans. Social media platforms became the battleground for impassioned discussions, with many expressing their dissatisfaction over the decision to sideline Rizwan, given his recent stellar performances.
After hitting 335 runs in four innings during Pakistan’s home Test series against New Zealand in 2022–23, Sarfaraz surpassed Rizwan in the red-ball cricket pecking order. On the other hand, Rizwan plays in both the white ball formats.
Pakistan playing XI against Australia: Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood (c), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Sarfaraz Ahmed (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Aamir Jamal, and Khurram Shahzad.
AUS vs PAK: Fans Lash Out At PCB For Dropping Muhammad Rizwan In The First Test
