Australia prepares to play Pakistan for the first time since 1998.

ISLAMABAD (AFP) – When the Ashes-winning Australians play their first Test in Pakistan in 24 years on Friday, they will encounter unfamiliar circumstances, tight security, and unexpected, but skilled opponents.

The Australians have had little time to acclimate to the environment in Rawalpindi, where the first Test will be played, after arriving in Islamabad just three days ago and being instantly wrapped in “head of state-level security.”

They may, however, enjoy what they see as they practise, with a surface that is frequently more conducive to seam bowling than the more normal spinners’ wickets prevalent across Pakistan.

Fast bowlers have taken 52 wickets in three Tests played in Rawalpindi since Pakistan was permitted to host matches again in 2019, ten years after the attack on the Sri Lanka team bus in Lahore, while spinners have only taken 21 wickets.

Fresh off a 4-0 Ashes thrashing of England in his debut series in charge, Australia skipper Pat Cummins conceded it would be all new to his team.

“You’re familiar with most foreign players and situations, but this series has a few more unknowns than usual, so it’ll be fascinating and hard,” Cummins said.

“I am a firm believer in ensuring that our own game is in good working shape. Instead of focusing on the opponent, we must believe that we have been in excellent form since the Ashes.”

Some of Pakistan’s players will be unfamiliar to the Australian.

Leg-spinner Yasir Shah and fast bowler Mohammad Abbas, who both sparkled in Pakistan’s 1-0 triumph over Australia in the United Arab Emirates in 2018, have been replaced by spinners Nauman Ali and Sajid Khan.

“One thing about the Pakistan squad is that they have some young players that come in and shine right away, so it’s a different challenge,” Cummins added.