The Pakistan team trained hard ahead of the final Test of the 3-match series against Australia, scheduled to start on January 3, 2024, at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Notably, the Pakistan cricket team was joined by a special guest during their practice session on the eve of the 3rd Test.

The team was joined by the late Andrew Symonds’ son Will Symonds during their practice session. Andrew Symonds, one of Australia’s most deadly all-rounders, passed away on May 14, 2022, in a tragic car accident at the age of 46. His son, Will, took part in the Pakistan team’s practice session. The players gave a warm welcome to Will, and he was greeted well by the entire team. Will, just like his father, could bowl and bat both, showcasing his all-round abilities. The Pakistan team also played cricket with Andrew’s son as he batted and bowled for the players. He also attended their nets session.

Pakistan’s batting coach Adam Hollioke also had a chat with Will, who was thrilled to be part of the team’s practice session. Will wants Pakistan to win the 3rd Test match and named Mohammed Rizwan, Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi as his favourite players of the team. The Pakistan Cricket Board shared the video on their social media.

This gesture by the Pakistan team was highly appreciated by the fans. In fact, ahead of the Boxing Day Test match, the Pakistan team presented Christmas gifts to the Australian players and their families. This gesture by the team also won the hearts of fans worldwide.

Australian captain Pat Cummins also appreciated this 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 have been a great touring side to Australia, but solely because of their act of kindness. Be it surprising the Australian team with Christmas gifts or playing cricket with Symonds’ son. However, when it comes to cricket, the team continues to struggle on Australian soil.

Australia took an unassailable 2-0 lead against Pakistan in the series by registering a massive 360-run win in the 1st Test match at Perth, followed by a 79-run win in the Boxing Day Test match at the iconic MCG. Pakistan would look to salvage some pride as they face Australia for the New Year Test match.

They have registered 16 consecutive losses in Tests in Australia, which is the most by any touring side. They haven’t registered a Test victory in Australia since 1995. As they play the final Test on January 3, the team will be eyeing avoiding a series clean-sweep against a rampant Australian side.