Azhar Ali expected to return in place of Asad Shafiq says Azhar Mahmood

Pakistan bowling coach Azhar Mahmood on Saturday revealed that ODI captain Azhar Ali will return to the playing XI in tomorrow’s encounter against Australia at Sydney, with middle-order batsman Asad Shafiq making way for the captain. Shafiq played brilliantly in the Test series and also took Pakistan within striking distance of a historic run-chase in the 1st Test but eventually fell agonisingly close.

Azhar Ali had sustained a hamstring injury in the opening ODI and missed the next two matches in the process. All-rounder Mohammad Hafeez who returned to the national squad for the series captained Pakistan in his absence. Azhar Ali was brilliant with the bat in the Test and smashed a terrific double century in the 2nd Test.

Speaking to the media at the Sydney Cricket Ground, Mahmood revealed that Azhar has recuperated from the injury and in all likelihood will captain the side in the 4th ODI. “He’s [Azhar] done all the rehab and everything. He’s pretty much sure he’ll play and the physio is sure he will play.”Mahmood said.

He also conceded that Shafiq is a quality player but it’s just that he hasn’t been consistent enough in the limited overs format. While Shafiq has been an exceptional find in the Test arena but he has failed to replicate his heroics in ODIs.

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“He’s [Shafiq] a quality player, there’s no doubt about that. It’s just a matter of being consistent in the one-day side. He’s been playing in Test cricket and is settled at number six and he’s done wonders for Pakistan cricket. In terms of one-day cricket, he has to play more consistently and get his numbers right,” he added.

Australia is currently leading the 5 match series 2-1 with two matches still to go. While Pakistan has been brilliant in patches, Australia has been more consistent than the visitors. Pakistan came back strongly in the 2nd ODI after losing the 1st one but again surrendered the advantage by losing the 3rd ODI.