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[Saba Sports News] The Pakistan cricket team faces a setback ahead of the third Test against England as left-arm pacer Mir Hamza is dealing with a minor right glute injury, casting doubt on his availability.
Pakistan, under Shan Masood’s captaincy, suffered a heavy defeat by an innings and 47 runs in the first Test in Multan. In response, a new selection committee made bold changes, dropping senior players Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Sarfaraz Ahmed.
These changes paid off in the second Test, where Pakistan leveled the series with a 152-run victory, thanks to spinners Noman Ali and Sajid Khan taking all 20 wickets—a feat last achieved by Pakistan in 1972.
Hamza was absent from Tuesday’s practice session, focusing on rehab exercises with physiotherapist Cliffe Deacon instead of bowling. According to Cricbuzz, Hamza has not bowled since Monday, raising concerns about his participation.
Meanwhile, fast bowler Mohammad Ali, who has prior experience playing in Rawalpindi, is training at full intensity and may replace leg-spinner Zahid Mehmood in the squad for the final Test.
However, Ali’s recent performances have been underwhelming, taking just six wickets in his last three matches at the venue.
Pakistan captain Shan Masood expressed his desire for a dry wicket for the series decider but was uncertain if Rawalpindi would offer such conditions.
He hopes the sun will help create a pitch that allows both teams to take 20 wickets.