Pakistan’s opening batters Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub will miss the upcoming ODI series against Australia after being ruled out due to injuries, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed on Wednesday.
According to a PCB statement, both players are currently undergoing rehabilitation under the supervision of the board’s medical panel and will not be available for selection for the three-match ODI series, which begins on May 30 during Australia’s tour of Pakistan.
The board stated that the duo has been advised to continue their recovery programmes, adding that further updates regarding the squad and player fitness will be shared in due course.
The PCB also expressed hope for the players’ swift recovery and return to competitive cricket soon.
The ODI series will kick off at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on May 30, while the remaining two matches are scheduled to be played at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on June 2 and June 4. All matches will start at 4:30pm local time.
The series marks Australia’s first bilateral ODI assignment in Pakistan since the 2022 tour, where the hosts clinched a 2-1 series win.
Earlier this year, Pakistan also whitewashed Australia 3-0 in the T20I series held in Lahore.
Big squad changes likely for Pakistan vs Australia series
It is pertinent to mention that major squad changes are likely for Pakistan in the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia.
Sources have revealed that final consultations are currently underway.
Former Captain Babar Azam, according to sources is likely to be included in the squad.
However, it is expected that several changes will be made from the group that recently played against Bangladesh.
According to sources fresh combinations are being considered ahead of the home series against Australia.
Sources have also revealed that Sufiyan Muqeem and Fakhar Zaman are set to make their comebacks.
Rumours have also suggested that Hunain Shah will be added in the squad and this series will be his debut in the national team.
Hunain is a young pacer who recently impressed the audience with his bowling in the 11th edition of Pakistan Super League (PSL 11). He was playing for Hyderabad Kingsmen.
The fast bowler was able to take 17 wickets in 10 matches at economy rate of 8.57.
However, it seems that for Hussain Talat and Faheem Ashraf it will be difficult to retain their positions in the upcoming ODI series.
Sources also said that the involvement of Mohammad Rizwan in the squad is also under consideration. He also might not make it into the squad.
Also read: Mike Hesson optimistic as Pakistan prepare for Australia series
