Australian envoy extends warm welcome to Pakistani team ahead of their Australian tour

Celina Ali

Rawalpindi: The Australian High Commissioner, Neil Hawkins, warmly welcomed the Pakistani Cricket Test Squad during a visit to Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium ahead of their Australian tour.

In a spirited encounter with the team during their friendly practice match, he expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming three-match Test series between Pakistan and Australia.

Hawkins took the opportunity to meet key players of the Pakistan Test team, including Captain Shan Masood, Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Muhammad Rizwan, and other team members. Team Director Muhammad Hafeez provided insights into the meticulous preparations underway for the anticipated series.

As he played a few shots with the players, Mr. Hawkins extended his best wishes for the Pakistan team’s visit to Australia. He emphasised, ‘they won’t just be cricketers in Australia; they’ll be ambassadors and role models, fostering meaningful connections with their extensive Pakistani and Australian fanbase.’

‘I encourage all Pakistanis to show their support for the Shaheens,’ the High Commissioner added.

Expressing eagerness for an exciting contest, Mr. Hawkins highlighted the historic nature of the tour, with the Perth Stadium set to host Pakistan for the first time on 14 December. The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground will witness the celebrated Boxing Day Test from 26-30 December, followed by the third and final match at the Sydney Cricket Ground on 3 January 2024.

The Australian High Commissioner concluded, stating, ‘We are looking forward to an exciting contest and a glorious Australian summer of cricket.’