On Friday evening, meanwhile, a massive Bomb Blast Strikes inside a mosque in Peshawar shook Pakistan. The tragic disaster happened as people were worshipping in the mosque when the bomb confessed to killing 30 people and injuring 50 more. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan also severely slammed the bombing and directed that victims receive emergency medical attention.
The incident occurred in Peshawar, which is around 187 kilometers from the Rawalpindi Stadium, in which the current first Test is now taking place. Cricket Australia (CA) had gone through the safety protocols several times before approving the visit. Even Australia’s players expressed their confidence in the country ahead of the commencement of the first Test. Nevertheless, it needs to be seen whether the Australians respond to the tour’s continuing.
Furthermore, after deciding to bat first, Pakistan has ruled the first day of the Test match. Imam-ul-Haq and Abdullah Shafique put up 105 runs for the first wicket, and the veteran has proceeded to play brilliantly to reach a century. Nathan Lyon seems to be the only bowler who has taken a wicket for the visiting side so far, and he would want to complete the day with a handful further.
While it is unclear whether the Australian squad is concerned following the bombing in Peshawar, the visiting team would be focused on making a return in the upcoming Test match in Rawalpindi. To attempt a comeback, Australia would need to bat exceptionally well in the 1st innings.
Pakistan vs Australia 1st Test Squads:
Pakistan Squad:
Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Azhar Ali, Babar Azam (c), Fawad Alam, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Iftikhar Ahmed, Nauman Ali, Sajid Khan, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi
Bench: Mohammad Wasim Jr, Shan Masood, Saud Shakeel, Zahid Mahmood
Australia Squad:
David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood
Bench: Mitchell Marsh, Marcus Harris, Mark Steketee, Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Mitchell Swepson, Josh Inglis
Footage Emerges After The Bomb Blast Strikes:
At least 30 killed and over 50 injured in blast at a mosque during Friday prayers in Peshawar, #Pakistan. pic.twitter.com/JIcOrswPGR
— Ahmer Khan (@ahmermkhan) March 4, 2022
