Melbourne, Jan 7 (Inditop.com) Wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal has been dropped from the Pakistan team for the third Test against Australia at Bellerive Oval next Wednesday. He will be replaced by young Sarfraz Ahmed.
Akmal had a terrible game behind the stumps in Pakistan’s shock 36-run loss to Australia in Sydney where he dropped four catches.
He grassed Michael Hussey three times off leg spinner Danish Kaneria on the third day, allowing the left-hander to form the backbone of Australia’s second innings with an unbeaten 134 on day four.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said on its website that “urgent action” was required, and will send Sarfraz to take Akmal’s place at Bellerive Oval.
“Pakistan Cricket Board shows it utmost concern over the poor performance of the team in the second Test match played in Sydney,” it said.
“Chairman Selection Committee was invited today for a meeting with chairman of PCB to evaluate the situation.
“As an urgent action, it was agreed to send wicketkeeper Sarfraz Ahmed to Australia before the third Test to reinforce the wicketkeeping department.
“The tour selection committee has been informed accordingly.”
The PCB says a performance review will be carried out at the end of the team’s tour to Australia.