Naseem Shah set for Pakistan Test debut against Australia in Brisbane

Pakistan will hand teenage pace sensation, Naseem Shah, his debut in the opening Test of the two-match series against Australia. The 16-year old fast bowler has impressed with the pace and bounce which he can generate. The team management led by coach Misbah-ul-Haq believes that Shah will be a handful on a Gabba pitch which has traditionally assisted the fast bowlers.

Naseem Shah has only played 7 matches at the first-class level. But it was enough evidence for Misbah and co to pick him in the Test squad. He further impressed in the tour and practice games and is now in line for a debut in Brisbane.

Newly-appointed Test skipper Azhar Ali confirmed Shah’s inclusion while addressing the media, saying:

“We are definitely looking to play him. He’s bowling really well. We’ll announce the side tomorrow (Thursday) but he’s definitely going to be part of it.”

Pakistan bowling coach, the legendary Waqar Younis also compared his action with the great Dennis Lillee:

“He’s got a very similar action. He’s not as big as Dennis – Dennis was a big guy – but when he gets it right, he’s a handful.”

Starc also set to be included

With James Pattinson facing a one-match suspension, Mitchell Starc is also set to play the Brisbane Test. Starc has fallen firmly behind Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Pattinson in the pecking order. But Pattinson’s code of conduct violation has afforded the left-arm seamer an opportunity. He is likely to form a pace trio along with Cummins and Hazlewood.

Head coach Justin Langer said on Starc’s inclusion:

“His white-ball cricket has always been world-class. What’s impressed me is how hard he’s worked, and he worked really hard with [bowling coach] Troy Cooley through the Ashes when he wasn’t playing. I love Mitchell Starc’s development . . .  his maturity through that period of not playing four of the five Test matches. I can’t wait to see him bowl this Test match.”

The opening Test of the series will be played in Brisbane from 21st November.