PAK vs AUS: Hasan Ali Joins Pakistan Squad Ahead Of Second Test Against Australia In Karachi

Fast bowler Hasan Ali joined the Pakistan squad for the upcoming second Test against Australia which is to be played at the National Stadium in Karachi from March 12 onwards. The first Test of the three-match series, which is the first between the two countries on Pakistani soil since 1998, ended in a dull draw with more than 1100 runs being scored for the loss of 14 wickets in three innings.

Hasan Ali had missed the first Test of the series due to the abductor strain injury he had suffered in the Pakistan Super League (PSL 2022) playoffs stage. The Islamabad United bowler was injured during his side’s game against Lahore Qalandars in the PSL. Faheem Ashraf and Haris Rauf also missed out on the first due to an injury and Covid, respectively.

Naseem Shah had replaced Hasan in the first Test in Rawalpindi, but with him returning, expect Shaheen Shah Afridi and Hasan Ali to spearhead the pace attack on the Karachi wicket.

Look Who’s Back- PCB Shared Video Of Hasan Ali Training In Karachi Ahead Of The Second Test

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) shared a video of Hasan Ali bowling in the nets during the Pakistan team training session in Karachi. However, Faheem Ashraf will miss the second Test as well, as he tested positive for COVID and has to isolate for five days.

The return of Hasan Ali and Haris Rauf is a huge boost for the home side ahead of the match in Karachi.

Here is the video of Hasan Ali training in Karachi:

Look who’s back! #BoysReadyHain l #PAKvAUS pic.twitter.com/SxQJo127Ei

— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) March 10, 2022

The Australian team landed in Karachi amidst heavy security as they made their way to the team hotels. The two teams had their first practice session at the National Stadium this afternoon, with both sides also getting a good look at the pitch for this match. The hosts are expected to play their spin duo of Sajid Khan and Nauman Ali once again, as the pitch is expected to be on the slower side and conducive to spin.

The National Stadium is Pakistan’s favorite hunting ground, where it has won 23 of the 43 Tests it has played there while losing only twice. Australia will be looking for their first win in Karachi, drawing five and losing three games.

Also Read: PAK vs AUS 2022: Watch – Fans Notice Similarities To Ravindra Jadeja After Shaheen Afridi Tries His Hand At Spin