Pakistan’s challenging start to their Australia tour worsened with a two-point deduction in the World Test Championship for a slow overrate during the first Test in Perth. Additionally, the players faced a 10 percent fine of their match fee for the overrate violation.
Australia dominated the first Test, handing Pakistan a 360-run defeat as they were dismissed for just 89 in the final innings, chasing a formidable 450. Falling short by 2 overs in the stipulated time led to the ICC’s action and the imposition of fines.
Looking ahead, Abbas Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, and Usama Mir are expected to bolster the squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand. Sources hinted at the inclusion of fast bowlers Mohammad Wasim Jr and Zaman Khan. Unfortunately, Shadab Khan’s absence due to injury is confirmed, with speculations of all-rounder Faheem Ashraf being excluded.
Rehabilitation concerns may sideline pacers Ihsanullah and Naseem Shah from the New Zealand tour. The official announcement of the squad for the series against New Zealand is slated for tomorrow (Wednesday).
