In an unusual sight, members of the Pakistan cricket team were captured loading their luggage onto a truck upon their arrival in Australia for an upcoming three-match Test series. The atypical moment, where players took charge of their own belongings, quickly gained traction on social media platforms. Notably, no representatives from the Pakistan embassy in Australia or Cricket Australia were reportedly present to receive the visiting squad.
Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan was observed actively assisting his teammates in loading luggage and kitbags onto the truck. The players’ self-handling of their belongings became an instant talking point, prompting discussions across social media.
Pakistan is scheduled to participate in a three-match Test series, commencing on December 14 in Perth, followed by matches in Melbourne (December 26-30) and Sydney (January 3-7). Shan Masood will lead the team as the captain, succeeding Babar Azam, who stepped down from the role.
Masood expressed optimism about rewriting history, as Pakistan has never won a Test series in Australia. He stated, “When you have not achieved something in history, then you have an opportunity to change it. So we will make an effort to produce positive results for Pakistan and for the World Test Championship.”
The squad for the Australia series includes three uncapped players – Saim Ayub, Aamir Jamal, and Khurrum Shehzad – along with the recall of Mir Hamza. Notably absent are key pacers Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf, the former recovering from shoulder surgery, and the latter opting to skip the series. The selectors have also omitted Fakhar Zaman, Usama Mir, Shadab Khan, and Iftikhar Ahmed for the Test tour.
Pakistan currently leads the World Test Championship 2023-25 table after victorious performances in both Tests against Sri Lanka, with India and Australia following in the standings.
