Canberra Storm Halt's Pakistan Teams against PM's XI

Pakistan's preparations for the upcoming 3-match Test series against Australia were abruptly curtailed as a freak weather event hit Canberra, concluding their tour match against the Prime Minister's XI a day earlier than scheduled.

A powerful electrical storm, accompanied by 55km/h winds, dislodged the covers over the Manuka Oval pitch on Friday, exposing it to heavy rainfall. Safety concerns led umpires and team captains to inspect the pitch on Saturday morning, ultimately calling off the game.

Despite the match already heading for a draw, the storm deprived the Pakistan Team of potential additional batting practice. The Prime Minister's XI trailed Pakistan by 24 runs at 4-367 overnight, highlighting the challenging conditions for both teams over nearly two days on the field.

Pakistan's top order, led by Captain Shan Masood's impressive unbeaten score of 201, showcased promise, raising hopes for a competitive series against Australia's elite bowlers.

With the series set to commence in Perth on Thursday, Pakistan's first-choice pace attack, featuring Shaheen Shah Afridi, Hasan Ali, and Mohammad Wasim, is expected to be named for the first Test. However, the team faces lineup challenges following an injury to spinner Abrar Ahmed, who is likely ruled out. The 37-year-old Noman Ali stands as the sole remaining spinner in the squad as the team works to finalize their lineup for the series opener.

Match Summary

PAKISTAN 391/9d (116.2 Overs)

1ST INNINGS

Shan Masood 201* (298)

Jordan Buckingham 5/80 (23)

PRIME MINISTER'S XI 367/4(141 Overs)

1ST INNINGS

Matt Renshaw 136* (337)

Imam-ul-Haq 1/12 (9)

PLAYER OF THE MATCH: Shan Masood