Big blow to Pakistan before the series against Australia

In his first Test against Australia, Pakistani fast bowler Haris Rauf was found to be positive for COVID-19. On March 4, Rawalpindi will host the first test match in a three-match series between Australia and Pakistan.

Rauf has been placed in isolation now a team official said. “With the Test only three days away, it is extremely unlikely that he will be ready for the first Test on March 4. With Rauf’s status as an uncertain starter, the team management is anticipated to call up Naseem Shah, a young fast bowler who is one of the squad’s two traveling reserves. Sarfaraz Ahmed, the wicketkeeper batsman, is also on standby.

On Tuesday, the Australian squad held its first practice session at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, which was restricted to the public due to rigorous security precautions.

 After the government granted 100 percent capacity for the three Tests to be conducted in Rawalpindi, Karachi, and Lahore on Tuesday, the first Test is likely to have a packed house on day one.

All vaccinated people, including children aged 12 and above, can attend the matches, according to the National Command and Control Centre for COVID-19, while those under the age of 12 will be allowed to attend unvaccinated.

Additionally, the government announced 100 percent attendance for the Pakistan Super League finals in Lahore.