Young Pakistani Pacer Likely to Play First ODI in Australia

Pakistani fast bowler Mohammad Hasnain is likely to make the playing XI for the first One Day International (ODI) against Australia on Monday.

Ahead of the series opener, the Pakistan squad engaged in a high-intensity training session in Melbourne, where players underwent rigorous physical fitness and fielding drills, followed by extended net practice.

The team’s frontline bowlers, including Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Aamir Jamal, were also in full swing, putting in the work required to sharpen their form ahead of the clash.

Pakistan selector Asad Shafiq was on hand at the Melbourne session, holding in-depth discussions with captain Babar Azam and other key players. Shafiq also met with head coach Jason Gillespie and the newly minted captain Mohammad Rizwan to refine the team’s strategies for the series.

Mohammad Hasnain is likely to get the nod in the playing team with Pakistan expected to feature an all-pace bowling attack on a wicket that usually offers plenty of kick for the fast bowlers.

The 24-year-old last featured for Pakistan in 2023 but with a string of impressive performances under his belt, looks to be the best version of himself as he tries to get his international career back on track.

The first ODI between Pakistan and Australia is set to take place on Monday at 8 AM (PST).