PAK vs AUS 2022: Faheem Ashraf Tests Negative, Available For Selection In 2nd Test

Pakistan all-rounder Faheem Ashraf has been given the green light to take part in the second Test after he returned a negative result in his covid-19 test on Friday.

Upon arrival in Rawalpindi, Faheem had tested positive and was doubtful of being available for the second Test. Fortunately for the hosts, he has recovered and can turn up for the Pakistan side in the second game in Karachi.

He was ruled out of the first Test that ended in a draw after sustaining a hamstring injury during the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

“Faheem has tested negative in retests and has rejoined the side, meaning he’s now available for the second Test,” a Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) spokesperson said on Thursday.

His unavailability may not have affected the home team on a surface that barely had anything for the bowlers. Pakistan piled up 476/4 in their first innings with Imam-ul-Haq and Azhar Ali scoring massive centuries.

In response, Australian batters showed their might as well, racking up 459 on the board with contributions from most of their frontline players. The match was already done by then as there was no chance of a result.

Therefore, the opening pair for the hosts, Abdullah Shafique and Imam put on 252 on the board, with the latter scoring his second hundred of the game. The pitch was subsequently rated as below average and has been given a demerit point.

Pak Test squad for Australia series:

Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (vc), Abdullah Shafique, Azhar Ali, Faheem Ashraf, Fawad Alam, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Nawaz, Nauman Ali, Sajid Khan, Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shan Masood, Zahid Mahmood.

Also Read – David Warner Likely To Attend Shane Warne’s State Memorial Service In Melbourne, Could Miss Starting Games Of IPL 2022