We can create history in Australia: Azhar

Pakistan Test captain Azhar Ali believes the Men in Green have the potential to win their first-ever Test series in Australia, when they take on the hosts in a two-match series starting from November 21 at Gabba, Brisbane.

While speaking to the reporters after the three-day practice match against Australia A in Perth, Azhar said that he is looking forward to the aforementioned Test series and is optimistic about Pakistan’s chances against Australia.

"All the guys are very excited and our biggest motivation is that we have never won a series here before, so we are excited because we have a chance of writing our names in history books,” said Azhar. “We have the ability, potential and talent but we need to execute and implement our plans. We are all thinking in a positive manner and I have no doubts that we can defeat Australia and we would ask for prayers from all so we can create history here."

Pakistan's Test skipper was satisfied with the work out his bowling attack got and particularly held 16-year-old rookie pacer Naseem Shah in high regard after the latter’s impressive spell, on the final day of the practice match, despite his mother passing away less than 24 hours earlier.

"Despite suffering a personal loss in the passing away of his mother, Naseem Shah bowled brilliantly and all in all, a perfect side game for us," he said. “"You have to bowl out the opposition twice in a Test match to win so these are good signs for us. Even though we will get tougher challenges in the future, but if we can continue to bowl like this I have no doubt that we will bowl out the opposition twice and win matches.”

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The 34-year-old also reiterated the importance of scoring runs and getting used to the conditions in Australia.

"Babar Azam's batting on the first day is a great sign for the Pakistan side and also in second innings, Shan also got important runs,” he said. “In side games such things are important that your players perform and get used to conditions"

"Iftikhar particularly played in a positive manner and hopefully he can continue his good form in the upcoming Tests,” he added.

It must be noted that Pakistan are scheduled to take on Cricket Australia XI in a two-day practice match at the WACA in Perth, starting on Friday, November 15, before the Test series.