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In a strategic move to address concerns around the team’s lack of match practice, Pakistan has secured an additional two-day practice game against Victoria XI. The fixture, set to take place at Melbourne’s Junction Oval on December 22 and 23, was not part of the original schedule but was added in response to the team’s request to Cricket Australia.
Addressing Match Practice Concerns
Following Pakistan’s 360-run defeat to Australia in the first Test in Perth, concerns arose about the team’s readiness for the series. To enhance match preparation, Pakistan’s head coach, Mohammad Hafeez, highlighted the importance of additional practice and requested Cricket Australia for a match. The two-day practice game against Victoria XI will not have first-class status, allowing Pakistan the flexibility to try out more than 11 players.
Hafeez expressed the team’s intention to make the most of the practice game, stating, “We wanted to have more practice rather than only one practice game. That had first-class status, so we couldn’t give all the bowlers the chance to have a feel. We will definitely plan accordingly. All the players should use those two days to make themselves more familiar with the situations and the conditions.”
The Victoria XI squad, led by Peter Handscomb, will include players such as Marcus Harris and Will Pucovski. Harris, a strong contender to replace the retired David Warner, will aim to showcase his skills in the practice game. The team comprises players not currently involved in the Big Bash League, providing a mix of experienced and emerging talents for Pakistan to face.
Optimism Despite Pitch Concerns
While recent pitch conditions in Canberra were a point of contention for Pakistan, the team remains optimistic about the practice game at the Junction Oval. Hafeez expressed gratitude to Cricket Australia for accommodating the additional fixture, emphasizing the team’s desire for conditions similar to the Test match.
“The conditions we get fall under Cricket Australia’s domain,” said Hafeez. “We have requested similar conditions to the Test match so that our players can take advantage of these conditions. We will try to learn from this in the most effective possible way.”
The second Test between Australia and Pakistan is scheduled to commence on December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The additional practice game aims to fine-tune Pakistan’s preparations and address any lingering concerns before the crucial Test match.
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