With a hope that recent history would not repeat itself, Pakistan would again take on Australia in the second Test of three-match series beginning on Monday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
It was likely that Pakistan would replace left-arm Rahat Ali with right-arm Sohail Khan Khan for second Test while rest of the team would remain the same as it was in Brisbane. On the other hand, Australia would keep the first Test squad intact for Boxing Day Test.
Since 1981, Pakistan played four Test matches against Australia at the MCG but failed to clinch a single victory during this period. Pakistan lost to Australia in three Tests while one ended in draw. However, Pakistan beat the Host twice at the same venue in 1979 and 1981.
Australia and Pakistan are sharing the nets today. #AusvPak pic.twitter.com/GDzr58NHRd
— Mazher Arshad (@MazherArshad) December 24, 2016
Though Australia won the first day-night Test at the Brisbane Cricket Ground by 39 runs but yet Pakistan conquered the hearts of Cricket World by virtue of a brilliant fight back in second innings especially after being bowled out for just 142 runs in first innings.
Particularly it was Asad Shafiq’s fantastic 137 runs innings supported by tail-enders which led Pakistan reach close to 490 runs target but unfortunately fell short of 39 runs. Asad Shafiq’s innings also earned him the man of the match award despite Pakistan’s defeat.
Pakistan 2nd Test Squad (Possible)
Sami Aslam, Azhar Ali, Babar Azam, Younis Khan, Misbah-ul-Haq (Captain), Asad Shafiq, Sarfraz Ahmed (Wicker Keeper), Wahab Riaz, Yasir Shah, Muhammad Amir, Rahat Ali/Sohail Khan
Australia 2nd Test Squad
Matt Renshaw, David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Steven Smith (Captain), Peter Handscomb, Nic Maddinson, Matthew Wade (Wicket Keeper), Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon, Jackson Bird
The Boxing Day Test would be followed by third and final Test at Sydney Cricket Ground from January 03 to 07, 2017 between Pakistan and Australia.
