Perth, Pakistan’s cricket team is ready to challenge Australia in the first Test of the Benaud-Qadir Trophy at Perth Stadium on December 14. This match is a crucial moment in the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25, where Pakistan currently leads the points table.

According to Pakistan Cricket Board, the first Test between Pakistan and Australia is set to begin at 0720 PKT. Pakistan’s team, ranked sixth in the ICC Men’s Test team rankings, began their campaign in the ICC World Test Championship with a win against Sri Lanka earlier this year. In contrast, Australia, the reigning world Test champions and fifth in the rankings, are commencing their second series of the ongoing WTC cycle following mixed results against England.

Pakistan’s previous tours to Australia have been challenging, including a two-nil loss in the 2019-20 series and a 1-0 defeat in the three-match Test series held in Pakistan in March 2022. The upcoming series presents an opportunity for Pakistan to revise their strategy and performance on Australian grounds.

The team will be led by Shan Masood, who takes on the role of Pakistan’s 35th Test captain. This series is particularly significant for Babar Azam, as he will be playing his 50th Test match. Babar, ranked fourth in the ICC Test batters rankings, and Shaheen Shah Afridi, fifth in the Test bowlers rankings, are key players for Pakistan. Saud Shakeel, Abdullah Shafique, and Salman Ali Agha have been notable contributors in the current WTC cycle for Pakistan.

Pakistan’s preparations included a four-day first-class match against the Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra, which ended in a draw. The team has been training extensively at Perth Stadium since their arrival on December 10. The squad faced a setback with spinner Abrar Ahmed being ruled out due to injury, and his replacement, Sajid Khan, joined the team recently.

The playing XI for Pakistan’s first Test against Australia includes debutants Aamir Jamal and Khurram Shahzad, showcasing the team’s blend of experience and new talent.

Shan Masood, speaking to the media before the first Test, emphasized the importance of focusing on the team’s growth and playing consistent, attractive cricket. He expressed confidence in the potential of the team and the importance of adapting and learning, regardless of the match results.

The first Test in Perth is not just a game but a chance for Pakistan to demonstrate their capability and strategy in the international cricket arena, especially in challenging conditions like those in Australia.