LAHORE (Daily Point) — During a press conference leading up to tomorrow’s match, Shan Masood unveiled the team’s decision to manage Shaheen Afridi’s workload, citing his recent extensive bowling, including 54 overs in the MCG Test just days ago.

Masood emphasized Afridi’s significant contribution to world cricket’s overs tally and the team’s commitment to ensuring his well-being, stating, “Shaheen Afridi has bowled the most overs in world cricket recently. He gives his 150% in training sessions as well. He is our main player. We’ll make sure we look after Shaheen Afridi really well.”

Expressing confidence in Babar Azam, who has faced a recent dip in form, Masood affirmed, “Babar Azam is our main player. We have no concerns over his performance. His approach is positive. He is practicing for hours in the nets and has great fitness. I am looking forward to him scoring big in the Sydney Test.”

The playing XI for the upcoming Test match has been announced, featuring two changes. Shaheen Afridi has been rested, with off-spinner Sajid Khan taking his place. Opener Imam-ul-Haq, facing a slump in form, has been dropped, making way for the young and talented batter Saim Ayub, who is set to make his Test debut.

Pakistan’s subpar fielding performance during the tour, marked by crucial dropped catches, has not escaped Shan’s attention. He acknowledged the team’s fielding issues, particularly focusing on slip fielding. Masood hinted at the possibility of deploying Babar Azam in the slips, highlighting Babar’s demonstrated skills in that position in the past.