AUS vs PAK: Mohammad Rizwan In? Aamer Jamal Out? Pakistan Playing XI for 2nd Test

Pakistan's cricket team has made a strategic move ahead of their second Test clash with Australia in Melbourne for the Boxing Day Test.

They suffered a dismal defeat in the first Test, and after the abysmal outing in Perth, there will be some changes in the team, both forced and unforced.

Mohammad Rizwan back in the fold

Mohammad Rizwan back in the fold in place of Sarfaraz Ahmed. Rizwan, who was overlooked in the opening Test at Perth, has been drafted in to replace the experienced Sarfaraz Ahmed as the wicketkeeper-batsman.

The decision comes after Sarfaraz's lacklustre performance with the bat, where he managed to score only seven runs over two innings. With hopes of bolstering their batting lineup, the Pakistani selectors have placed their trust in Rizwan for the prestigious Boxing Day Test.

Faheem Ashraf Out, Sajid Khan In

Beyond the wicketkeeper swap, Pakistan has made additional adjustments to their 12-man squad. Faheem Ashraf, who failed to leave a mark in Perth, has been omitted.

Moreover, the inclusion of Sajid Khan, who stepped in for Abrar Ahmed in the first Test is noteworthy. Khan is expected to take the field at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) if the pitch conditions are deemed unfavourable for pace bowling, adding a potential spin option to the team's strategy.

Mir Hamza has also been included in the side as he replaces Khurram Shahzad who had a rib fracture and is out of the series.

The top order for Pakistan looks set to remain intact, with Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Shan Masood, Babar Azam, and Saud Shakeel anticipated to lead the batting contingent. These players make up the backbone of Pakistan's lineup and will be crucial in their quest for success against a formidable Australian side.

Australia vs Pakistan 2nd Test: Pakistan Probable Playing XI

Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Shan Masood (C), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Agha Salman, Hasan Ali, Sajid Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Aamer Jamal