In a huge blow to Pakistan, spinner Shadab Khan has been ruled out of the first Test against Australia, scheduled to begin from Monday. The 20-year-old spinner has picked up a groin injury and the medical reports suggest that he hasn’t recovered yet. However, he‘s expected to attain fitness before the 2nd Test.
According to the media reports, uncapped cricketer Bilal Asif has been named as Shadab’s replacement. He is a right-arm off-break bowler who has scalped 59 First-class wickets. He has also played 3 ODIs for Pakistan and taken 5 wickets.
Pakistan skipper Sarfraz Ahmed, who is hugely relying upon Yasir Shah, will have to plan out appropriately to utilise Bilal on his debut. He will be backed with the skills and experience of Mohammad Hafeez, who has returned to the Test squad after a long gap of 26 months.
Pakistan’s spin attack is expected to threaten the Aussies in upcoming 2-match Test series in the UAE conditions. Especially, Yasir Shah, who was the wrecked the Australian ship during their previous tour in 2016. The hosts also look strong with the presence of Babar Azam, Azhar Ali in the batting department.
After the conclusion of the Test series, both the teams will lock horns in the three T20Is which will begin on October 24.