Hafeez included in Pakistan squad for Australia Tests

All-rounder was not part of initial 17-member squad for the two-Test series

PHOTO: AFP

The national selection committee and team management has decided to include veteran all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez for the upcoming two-match Test series against Australia.

Hafeez, who was originally not part of the squad, will now travel to Dubai from the first available flight.

Earlier, the committee headed by Chief Selector Inzamamul Haq after consultation with captain Sarfraz Ahmed and coach Mickey Arthur had announced the 17-member Test squad for the two-match Test series against Australia.

Fast-bowler Mohammad Amir was dropped from the side while left-arm pacer Wahab Riaz makes a comeback into the team. Mohammad Rizwan was also picked as reserve wicketkeeper.

“The team has been selected keeping in mind the conditions of the UAE,” said Inzamam. “Mohammad Amir has been dropped from the side while Wahab Riaz and Mir Hamza have been picked.”

He added: “Three spinners, Shahdab Khan, Yasir Shah and Bilal Asif, have been kept in the squad keeping in view the UAE wickets.

Furthermore, Mohammad Rizwan makes a comeback in the Test squad [as reserve wicketkeeper].”

The first Test is in Dubai from October 7 with the second in Abu Dhabi from October 16.

Squad

1. Azhar Ali

2. Fakhar Zaman

3. Imamul Haq

4. Babar Azam

5. Asad Shafiq

6. Haris Sohail

7. Usman Salahuddin

8. Sarfraz Ahmed (Captain- WK)