AUS vs PAK: Abrar Ahmed likely to miss first Test with leg discomfort

Abrar Ahmed is almost certainly ruled out of the first Test of the three-match series against Australia, starting from December 14. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed the development on December 8.

He will be missing the first test after experiencing some discomfort in his right leg. The extent of the injury is currently unknown, and his availability for the first Test is under doubt as Pakistan are looking for alternatives, with there being a likelihood of Abrar missing out the whole series.

Abrar went off the pitch on Day 3 of the warm-up game between Pakistan and the Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra. He  took one wicket and conceded 80 runs in 27 overs. The bowler will go for an MRI scan on Saturday, December 9, even if he is cleared of any serious injury. While there is no set timeline of his return, his participation in the first Test, starting from December 14, is unlikely.

If he is indeed ruled out, Pakistan will only have Noman Ali as the other specialist spin option. With limited options in the spin department and the pace-friendly surface of the Optus Stadium Perth, Pakistan are expected to go for a full-pace attack or opt for Noman as the only spinner.

Pakistan look to improve after a subpar World Cup

With the Test series rapidly approaching, Pakistan will be keen on putting in a good performance, as they will be anticipating a tough challenge on Australian soil.

The side will be coming into the series after below-par performances in the recently concluded ODI World Cup 2023, where they finished in fifth place and missed out on making it to the knockout stages of the competition. However, with a change in captaincy and Shan Masood leading the side, it could be interesting to see how things change for Pakistan when they take on the Aussies in the first Test.