Lahore, The Pakistan national selection committee, led by Wahab Riaz, has named Mohammad Nawaz as Noman Ali’s replacement for the ongoing Test series against Australia. Noman Ali, a left-arm spinner, was sidelined from the three-Test match series due to acute appendicitis and has undergone surgery.

According to Pakistan Cricket Board, Nawaz a 29-year-old left-arm spinner and part of the 17-member T20I squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand, will depart for Australia on the earliest available flight.

Chief selector Wahab Riaz commented on the situation, noting the logistical challenges, including visa issues, that influenced the decision to choose Nawaz as Ali’s replacement, especially considering the team’s need for a left-arm spinner.

Regarding Abrar Ahmed’s availability, the team management remains optimistic that he will be fit to join the team for the third Test match at the Sydney Cricket Ground, starting on January 3, 2024.