Wasim Akram: Ahead of the first Test match against Australia, former Pakistan bowler Wasim Akram advised the men-in-green to be cautious of the bouncy Perth pitch, reckoning that it will be a big test for Pakistan in Down Under.
The Pakistan men’s team led by newly appointed Test captain Shah Masood played a four-day warm-up match against Australia PM’s XI in Canberra which was a part of Pakistan’s preparation ahead of their three-match Test series against Australia, slated from December 14 to January 7, 2024.
“Canberra is too early. OK, the captain got 200 … they got some runs, so there’s a bit of confidence. (But) new management, new captain. It will take time, especially at the first Test match in Perth. We know the pitch is very bouncy, a different pitch altogether from Canberra. It’ll be a big Test for this team,” Akram was quoted by Perth Now.
Pakistan piled up runs in the practice match in Canberra last week, with captain Shah Masood displaying a fine batting performance scoring an impressive 201* in the first innings, prompting the team to declare at 391 runs with 9 wickets down.
In response, PM’s XI displayed a strong batting performance, accumulating 367 runs with 4 wickets lost, resulting in a drawn match.
Akram also pointed out that history is not on Pakistan’s side as haven’t produced favorable results Down Under in the past two decades, having failed to register a single victory in Tests. They last claimed a victory on the Australian soil in 1995.
“Australia is a difficult country, the last time Pakistan won here was 1995 (in) a Test series. It’s kind of a blessing in disguise, a tough start for a new captain. But if they do well here and compete against the mighty Australians, that will give them a lot of confidence,” said Akram.
Pakistan will lock horns with Pat Cummins-led Australia for the first Test match on December 14 in Perth.
