Pakistan vs Australia: Mohammad Hafeez doubtful for selection

Karachi: Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez is unlikely to find a place in the national squad for the upcoming three-match Test series against Australia beginning December 15 at the Gabba. According to the Dawn, Pakistan chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq has decided against making any changes to the Test side that is playing the ongoing final Test of the two-match series against New Zealand at the Seddon Park in Hamilton. Inzamam, however, is expected to consult Test skipper Misbah-u-Haq in Lahore on Monday before announcing the squad for the Test series, which also features matches in Melbourne (December 26-30) and Sydney (January 3-7). FULL CRICKET SCORECARD: Pakistan vs Australia, 1st Test at Brisbane

Hafeez’s lack of runs in the ongoing Quaid-i-Azam Trophy National Cricket Championship and his inability to bowl until he clears the bowling test, which took place in International Cricket Council (ICC) biomechanic lab, seems to be the reasons that have gone against him. The 36-year-old, who appeared in 50 Tests, 177 ODIs and 77 T20s for Pakistan, has been facing problems with his bowling action since 2014. He was also handed a ban by the ICC twice for an illegal bowling action, firstly in December 2014 which later got cleared in April 2015 and second in July last year for 12 months.

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Earlier, Australian skipper Steven Smith has admitted his newly-energised side need to work harder and have to be at their absolute best to overcome Pakistan in the three-match Test series beginning on December 15 at the Gabba. “Pakistan have been playing some good cricket, [they have] some quality players and we will have to be at our best to get on top of them as well,” the Express Tribune quoted Smith as saying.