Pakistan vs Australia: Sarfraz Ahmed accepts Tim Paine's pre-series handshake offer

The two-match Test series between Pakistan and Australia will commence is all set to commence on Sunday. This is an all-important series for both of these teams considering the recent performances. While the heat will be on in both the encounters, Tim Paine is trying to charm the opposition before the series begins as a mark of respect.

Hence, he has requested Pakistan skipper Sarfraz Ahmed of a pre-series handshake prior to day one of the first Test. Sarfraz had no hesitations in accepting the offer and replied in the affirmative. The Pakistan skipper confirmed the same during the pre-match press conference.

Tim Paine wants to keep the custom alive

This is not the first time that the Australian team is doing this. They have done the same earlier this year in the series against England. Tim Paine, who was handed over the reigns after the bans were imposed on David Warner and Steve Smith following the ball-tampering saga, is keen to restore the lost dignity.

Post the incident, it was very important for the Aussies to bridge the gaps and regain their reputation and trust. This act will certainly help them get there up to a certain extent.

Also, Australia would be keen on getting a win under their belt. The team has lost twelve out of the last fifteen Tests that they played. With the bowling lineup looking quite settled, the onus will be on the batsmen to deliver. It would be interesting to see how they would deal against spin as their fortunes in the series will largely depend upon how well they play Yasir Shah and Co.

Pakistan, on the other hand, would be playing a Test nearly after four months. They last played England in May-June and drew the two-match series. With their players under the pump after the performance in the Asia Cup, the team would be focussing on an improved show. This series is also very crucial for skipper Sarfraz Ahmed as there are already demands of him being axed as the captain of the side.

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