The Pakistan team underwent rigorous training in preparation for the final Test of the three-match series against Australia, scheduled to commence on January 3, 2024, at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Notably, a special guest, Will Symonds, son of the late Andrew Symonds, joined the team during their practice session on the eve of the third Test.
Andrew, a renowned Australian all-rounder, tragically passed away on May 14, 2022, in a car accident at the age of 46. Will actively participated in the Pakistan team's practice session, receiving a warm welcome from the players. Just like his father, Will showcased his all-round abilities, displaying skills in both batting and bowling. The Pakistan team engaged in a friendly cricket session with Andrew's son. The team played cricket with Will, allowing him to bat and bowl during the session. He also attended their nets session.
Pakistan's batting coach, Adam Hollioake, had a conversation with Will during the team's practice session, and Will expressed his excitement to be a part of it. He hoped for Pakistan's victory in the third Test and named Mohammad Rizwan, Babar Azam, and Shaheen Afridi as his favourite players from the team. The video of this interaction was shared by the Pakistan Cricket Board on their social media platforms.
The fans highly appreciated this gesture from the Pakistan team. Before the Boxing Day Test match, the team presented Christmas gifts to the Australian players and their families, winning hearts worldwide. Australian captain Pat Cummins also expressed his appreciation for this thoughtful gesture by the team.
“That was just great. Just Merry Christmas gifts and lollipops for the kids. So that was great. We've got a good relationship with the Pakistan side. That tour a couple of years ago was really special as well. So really kind and thoughtful of their group to think of us,” Cummins said.
Indeed, the Pakistan team has been appreciated for their kind gestures during the tour, like surprising the Australian team with Christmas gifts and playing cricket with Symonds' son, their performance in cricket on Australian soil has been challenging.
Australia secured a dominant 2-0 lead against Pakistan in the series with a massive 360-run victory in the first Test at Perth and a 79-run win in the Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG. Pakistan aim to restore some pride as they face Australia in the New Year Test match.
Having suffered 16 consecutive Test defeats in Australia, they hold the record for the longest losing streak among touring sides. The team hasn't secured a Test victory in Australia since 1995. As they approach the final Test on January 3, their focus will be on preventing a series clean-sweep against the dominant Australian side.
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