Pak vs Aus Test: Mohammad Nawaz replaces Noman Ali

Left-arm orthodox spinner Mohammad Nawaz will replace unfit Noman Ali for the ongoing Test series against Australia, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced Saturday.

The national selection committee, headed by Wahab Riaz, has approved the selection of Nawaz, who’s already part of the squad playing the T20I series against New Zealand starting on January 12. 

The 29-year-old bowler will fly to Australia right away.

The PCB said earlier today that spinner Noman will not be playing in the ongoing Australia Test series after he underwent surgery.

Noman reported experiencing abrupt and intense stomach pain on December 22. As a result, he underwent emergency tests and scans, which verified the diagnosis of appendicitis.

The PCB reported that he had a laparoscopic appendectomy Saturday morning at the surgeon's recommendation.

Noman is the second Pakistani bowler to have been ruled out of the Test series in Australia on fitness grounds after Khurram Shahzad.

Riaz, chief selector men’s cricket team, said: “It is really unfortunate that Noman Ali is not available for the Test matches. Due to logistical challenges, including visa issues for any new player, and considering the requirement for a left-arm spinner, Nawaz was the best available choice for the side.”

On Abrar Ahmed’s availability, the team management is hopeful that Abrar will be available to the side for the third Test match at the Sydney Cricket Ground, commencing from January 3, 2024.

Pakistan will play the second Test in Melbourne on December 26 after losing the opening game of the three-match series.