Pakistan Team Arrives in Melbourne, Gears Up for Australia ODI Series
Members of the Pakistan ODI squad have arrived in Melbourne for their upcoming series against Australia, with the remaining players scheduled to depart today, according to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi met with newly appointed white-ball captain Muhammad Rizwan and vice-captain Salman Ali Agha, extending his best wishes and emphasizing the honor of leading the national team. He stressed the importance of unity and resilience, encouraging the squad to collaborate for success.
Squad for Australia Tour
The PCB has unveiled the squads for the tours to Australia and Zimbabwe, featuring the return of key players alongside emerging domestic talent.
The Pakistan white-ball teams are set to play three ODIs and three T20Is during their November-December tours, beginning with Australia from November 4 to 18, followed by matches in Zimbabwe from November 24 to December 5.
These tours are regarded as vital preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy, with selectors aiming to balance experience and fresh talent.
Key Returns for Australia, Rotations for Zimbabwe
Players Babar Azam, Naseem Shah, and Shaheen Shah Afridi, who were rested during Pakistan’s recent Test series against England, will join the squad for the Australia tour but will be rested for the Zimbabwe series.
Wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan will participate in both ODIs against Australia and Zimbabwe but will miss the T20Is in Zimbabwe.
The selection committee’s rotation policy seeks to ensure readiness for the Champions Trophy while also providing promising domestic players with international exposure.
Several players without previous ODI caps, including Aamir Jamal, Arafat Minhas, Faisal Akram, Haseebullah, Muhammad Irfan Khan, and Saim Ayub, have been included in the ODI squad. Jahandad Khan and Salman Ali Agha are set to make their T20I debuts.
Kamran Ghulam, Omair Bin Yousuf, and Sufyan Moqim, who have previously played for Pakistan in limited-overs matches, will rejoin the national team.
Notably, Kamran served as a concussion substitute for Haris Sohail against New Zealand earlier this year, while Omair and Sufyan debuted during the Asian Games men’s cricket competition.
Fast bowler Mohammad Hasnain, who led the Champions One-Day Cup in Faisalabad with 17 wickets, also returns to the ODI squad after last playing against New Zealand in January 2023.
