South Africa vs Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman deemed fit for the Boxing Day Test
Hashim Amla and Dale Steyn will be back for the hosts.
The Boxing Day is arriving soon at the box office with South Africa playing Pakistan and the MCG hosting an all-interesting 3rd Test between India and Australia. After a disappointing 2-1 defeat in the hands of New Zealand in UAE, the Men in Green from the subcontinent now travel to the Safari lands for enthralling combat.
Both sides have some amazing fast bowlers in their respective lineups, which should spice things up wonderfully for the fans. Pakistan had announced a 15-man squad earlier but some big names are expected to miss the first game. Fakhar Zaman is expected to play alongside Mohammad Hafeez in the playing XI for Sarfraz and company.
As announced by Pakistani reporter Saj Sadiq on his official Twitter handle, the southpaw will be available despite some concerns over his fitness. but the big blow for them is the absence of Mohammad Abbas and Shadab Khan, who are not fit for Boxing Day. Shadab will be available for the second Test but the same is not expected in the came of Abbas.
“Fakhar Zaman is fit for the 1st Test Mohammad Abbas will not be risked for the 1st Test Shadab Khan is not fit for the 1st Test but will be ready for the 2nd Test,” Saj Sadiq tweeted.
Hashim Amla returns for South Africa
After a long sabbatical from International cricket, Proteas stalwart Hashim Amla is back with the side in the longest format. His recent form has been a huge concern for South Africa, who are not sure about his presence in the upcoming World Cup. He might take the number three position instantly with Aiden Markram and Dean Elgar taking the opening slots.
Dale Steyn also marks his comeback in Tests and is expected to partner Kagiso Rabada and Dane Paterson in the fast bowling department. Zubayr Hamza was named in the 13-man squad for the game and the 23-year-old might be getting his maiden cap at the Centurion.
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