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Afridi’s absence is the big surprise, with captain Shan Masood praising him for being the leader of the attack just hours earlier. But his lack of pace since his return from injury last year has been the most talked-about aspect of his bowling, his pace rarely rising above the low 130s. In addition, he has had to shoulder greater responsibility in the absence of key frontline bowling partner Naseem Shah, with the absence of Pakistan’s first-choice spinner and an inexperienced fast bowling attack throwing an even greater burden his way. Consequently, he has bowled – by far – more deliveries than any other player across both sides this series, sending down four balls shy of 100 overs. The man in second place on that list is offspinner Nathan Lyon at 69.5 overs.
Imam being dropped to the bench is less of a surprise, not so much for his struggles in Melbourne but how out of touch he looked while at the crease. Masood also stressed the importance of playing attacking cricket, with Imam’s strike rate of 31.22 not quite conducive to that philosophy. While Ayub has limited red-ball experience – the 21-year old has only played 14 first class games – his aggressive disposition is more likely to fall in tune with that brand of cricket.
Australian captain Pat Cummins announced earlier on Tuesday that the hosts were going into the third Test with an unchanged side after having taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in this series.
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