The national selection committee, led by Wahab Riaz, has appointed all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz as the replacement for spinner Noman Ali in the ongoing Test series against Australia.
Noman had to step out of the three-Test series due to acute appendicitis, leading to his surgery today.
Mohammad Nawaz, a 29-year-old left-arm spinner, already part of the 17-member T20I squad for New Zealand starting on January 12, will fly to Australia at the earliest opportunity.
With 16 Test wickets for Pakistan under his belt, Nawaz has been called in as the best available option due to logistical challenges, including visa-related issues for a new player, and the team’s need for a left-arm spinner, explained Wahab Riaz, chief selector of the men’s cricket team.
Meanwhile, the team management remains optimistic about spinner Abrar Ahmed’s availability for the third Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, starting January 3, 2024, after he missed the first Test due to knee-related discomfort.
Earlier, pacer Khurram Shazad had to withdraw from the series due to a stress fracture in his left 10th rib and an abdominal muscle tear. The PCB plans to consult with an Australian specialist for Shazad’s treatment and will devise a management protocol accordingly.
Shazad, who debuted during the Perth Test and secured five wickets, will continue his recovery at the NCA in Lahore.
The second Test between Pakistan and Australia is set to commence on December 26 in Melbourne.