The stage is set for a thrilling clash between Australia and Pakistan in the first Test match of the three-match series, starting from December 14 at Optus Stadium in Perth. Both teams are eager to prove themselves after contrasting performances in the recent ODI World Cup, where Australia lifted the trophy and Pakistan failed to qualify for the knockout stage.
Cummins to Lead Strong Australia in First Test; Warner and Smith Return
Australia have named a strong squad for the first Test, led by the world’s number one bowler Pat Cummins, who will captain the side for the first time in the absence of the injured Aaron Finch. The hosts have also recalled veteran batsmen David Warner and Steven Smith, who missed the World Cup due to their involvement in the ball-tampering scandal. The duo will add firepower and experience to the Australian batting line-up, which also features young talents like Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green and Travis Head.
Shan Masood to Lead Pakistan’s Rebuilding Effort in Australia
Pakistan, on the other hand, have a new leader in Shan Masood, who was appointed as the Test captain after Babar Azam stepped down following the World Cup debacle. Masood has a tough task ahead of him, as he has to rebuild the confidence and morale of his team, which has not won a Test match in Australia since 1995. The visitors have a talented but inexperienced bowling attack, which will rely on the pace and swing of Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah and Hasan Ali. The batting department will depend on the likes of Azhar Ali, Fawad Alam and Mohammad Rizwan, who have shown some form in the warm-up matches.
Stage is All Set High-Octane for The Clash
The first Test match promises to be a high-octane contest, as both teams have a lot to play for. Australia will want to continue their dominance at home and extend their winning streak to six Tests, while Pakistan will hope to create history and end their 28-year drought of a Test victory Down Under. The pitch at Optus Stadium is expected to offer pace and bounce, which will suit the fast bowlers of both sides. The weather forecast is also favourable, with sunny skies and mild temperatures predicted for the five days of the match.
The Teams’ Lineups
Australia
The Aussie batting lineup features David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, and Mitch Marsh. Alex Carey is the wicketkeeper, while Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Nathan Lyon, and Josh Hazlewood form the bowling attack.
Pakistan
The Pakistani openers are Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq, followed by Shan Masood, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, and Sarfaraz Ahmed. Salman Ali Agha, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Aamir Jamal and Khurram Shahzad complete the team.
What The Captains Said
Pat Cummins, the Australian skipper, is returning from a long hiatus. He supported Warner amid the Mitchell Johnson row and praised the team spirit in the Australian camp.
“We look out for each other a lot. We have experienced a lot together over the years,” Cummins said. “I have been playing with the likes of Davey or Steve (Smith) for 12 years now. We are very loyal to each other.”
Shan Masood is leading Pakistan for the first time in this match. He urged his team to adjust quickly to the conditions.
“We discussed adaptability as a team. It doesn’t matter if we play in Canberra, Karachi, or Perth, the ability to adapt to different situations is crucial for me. Good cricketers can adapt to any condition. They can change their game accordingly. And that’s what we have to do because these three venues – Perth, the MCG and the SCG, all have something unique to offer, and our challenge would be to adapt as fast as possible,” Masood said.
Cummins v Masood – Who Will Claim the Crown in the First Test?
Who will emerge victorious in the first Test match between Australia and Pakistan? Will Cummins lead his team to glory in his maiden Test as captain? Will Masood inspire his team to pull off a stunning upset in his first Test as captain? The answers will be revealed soon, as the action unfolds at Optus Stadium from December 14. Don’t miss this epic battle between two fierce rivals, as they fight for pride and glory in the longest format of the game. Tune in to WC Sports to get more such sports news.
