Third Test: Australia v Pakistan
Venue: Hobart Dates: 13-17 January Start time: 2330 GMT
Coverage: Live on Sky Sports 1

Kamran was at fault several times in Pakistan's second Test defeat

Wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal has paid for his nightmare display in Pakistan's second Test loss to Australia by being dropped for Wednesday's third Test.

The 27-year-old dropped four catches as Australia pulled off a remarkable 36-run win in Sydney to clinch the series.

"Unfortunately Kamran had a bad game but he is a very good wicketkeeper-batsman. It can happen to anyone," said coach Intikhab Alam.

The uncapped Sarfraz Ahmed takes the place of vice-captain Kamran.

But Intikhab said being dropped did not necessarily mark the end of Kamran's Test career.

"At times you have to take that tough decision and we'll take that decision. And there is no doubt that Sarfraz will play," he said.

"I have already spoken to Kamran and I think he understands.

"These things happen in cricket. I'm sure he's good enough and he'll come back."

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Intikhab also laughed off reports that Kamran's brother Umar had gone on strike in protest at his brother being dropped from the side.

"He is OK. He had a sore back," said Intikhab.

"The last few days the guys have been working very, very hard, and so I gave them a day off.

"Umar didn't practise yesterday, he was sent to hospital and had X-rays done and the doctors said there is nothing wrong with him."

Australia, who have won their last 11 Tests against Pakistan, are only expected to make one change to their side, with Simon Katich likely to return after an arm injury.

Phillip Hughes, who filled in for Katich in Sydney, has been released from the squad to play for New South Wales.

That means Katich is likely to be reunited with Shane Watson at the top of the order.

Their partnership has averaged 91 in four Tests this summer, and between them they have produced eight 50s (including six scores in the 90s) and a century.

The importance of Katich was underlined in the second Test with Hughes only able to make a duck and 37.

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