NEW DELHI: Pakistan's newly appointed captain, Shan Masood, is determined to defy historical odds and secure victory against a full-strength Australia in the first Test at Perth Stadium, starting on Thursday.
Replacing Babar Azam as skipper after the 50-overs World Cup, Masood acknowledged the team's lack of Test match practice but emphasized a positive and win-oriented approach.
Masood, a fan of England's 'Bazball' style of play, highlighted the importance of being sensible and strategic in the game. He expressed the team's commitment to playing for a win, stating, "It's about seeing the requirement of the games and seeing what are the ways we can save time in the game and create a situation where taking 20 wickets would be easy."
Pakistan face a challenging history against Australia, having taken 20 wickets only once in their last eight Tests in the country since 2009. The team is on a sequence of 14 straight losses, with their last victory dating back to November 1995.
Australia, boasting a formidable bowling attack that contributed to winning the World Test Championship title and the 50-overs World Cup this year, is expected to present a tough challenge for Pakistan.
Captain Pat Cummins announced a full-strength side for the Test, with off-spinner Nathan Lyon returning as the only change from the team that retained the Ashes against England in August.
Cummins also revealed that Travis Head, a key figure in Australia's World Cup triumph, would serve as one of the team's vice-captains alongside Steve Smith. Cummins praised Head's personality and tactical acumen, stating, "He's got all the makings of a really strong leader."
(With inputs from Reuters)
