LAHORE: Pakistan former captain Shoaib Malik has put his weight behind wicket-keeper Sarfaraz Ahmed and opener Shan Masood to be included in the Playing XI for the final Test of the historic three-match series between Pakistan and England. 

Taking to Twitter on Monday, Shoaib suggested two changes in Pakistan’s batting lineup for the third Test, scheduled to take place in Karachi from December 17 to 21.

“In my opinion, Pakistan should include Sarfaraz Ahmed & Shan Masood in playing 11. Sarfaraz will bring much experience & Shan will help this team to have more stability. I hope our team will perform well in Karachi insha’Allah.” he tweeted.

Malik’s suggestion for changes in the team came at a time when Pakistan faced two consecutive defeats and lost the home series 2-0 against England.

England sealed a dramatic win earlier today as they beat Pakistan by 26 runs in Multan Test on day 4.

Shan, who batted at No 3 for Pakistan in the recently concluded T20 World Cup was Pakistan’s automatic choice to open in the red-ball format before he was sidelined since January 2021, when he played his last Test against New Zealand in Christchurch.

Sarfaraz, on the other hand, was captain of the side when he played his last Test in January 2019 and has since been unable to find a spot in the Playing XI.

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