The T20I series between Australia and Pakistan is set to commence on November 14, 2024, at the iconic Gabba in Brisbane. This three-match series comes on the heels of a surprising ODI series defeat for Australia, marking their first home ODI series loss to Pakistan in 22 years. With Josh Inglis stepping in as captain for the T20Is, Australia aims to rebound from their recent performance.
Pakistan’s historic triumph over Australia in the ODI series
Australia’s recent form has been inconsistent, especially highlighted by their 2-1 loss in the ODI series against Pakistan. The defeat has raised questions about the team’s depth and adaptability, particularly as they head into this T20I series without several key players from their Test squad, with Inglis being the notable exception.
Conversely, Pakistan enters this series with renewed confidence after their ODI success. Their pace attack has been a standout feature, and all four fast bowlers who excelled in the ODIs will be available for selection in the T20 format. This includes Haris Rauf and Shaheen Afridi, who are expected to pose significant challenges to the Australian batting lineup.
Key players to watch
- Josh Inglis: As the newly appointed captain, Inglis will need to lead by example both behind the stumps and with the bat. His experience in limited-overs cricket will be crucial in guiding a relatively young squad.
- Glenn Maxwell: Maxwell is one of the most explosive batsmen in T20 cricket, known for his unorthodox shot-making and ability to score quickly. With 2600 runs in T20Is at a strike rate of 154.76, he has the potential to change the game in a matter of overs. He holds the record for five T20I centuries, showcasing his capability to play big innings under pressure
- Adam Zampa: Zampa is Australia’s leading spinner and has been effective in T20s with an economy rate of 7.24. His ability to take wickets at crucial junctures makes him an essential part of the bowling attack.
Also READ: AUS vs PAK: Cricket Australia names Cooper Connolly’s replacement for Pakistan T20Is
Best playing XI for Australia for the T20I series against Pakistan:
- Matthew Short
- Role: Opening Batter
- Strengths: Short is known for his aggressive batting style and ability to score quickly at the top of the order. He has a solid technique and can adapt to different conditions, making him a versatile opener.
- Impact: As an opener, Short’s role is crucial in setting a strong foundation. If he can provide a quick start, it will relieve pressure on the middle order and allow for an aggressive approach throughout the innings.
- Josh Philippe
- Role: Wicketkeeper-Batter
- Strengths: Philippe is an explosive batter with a strong record in domestic T20 leagues. His ability to play innovative shots makes him a dangerous player in the powerplay overs.
- Impact: As a wicketkeeper-batter, Philippe’s dual role allows Australia to maintain flexibility in their batting lineup. His quick runs can be pivotal in establishing momentum early in the innings.
- Josh Inglis (C)
- Role: Captain & Middle-Order Batter
- Strengths: Inglis has shown maturity and skill in his batting, with an average of over 30 in T20Is. His leadership experience from recent matches will be vital as he navigates through challenges.
- Impact: As captain, Inglis must guide the team strategically while also contributing significantly with the bat. His ability to anchor the innings while accelerating when needed will be crucial against Pakistan’s bowling attack.
- Glenn Maxwell
- Role: All-rounder
- Strengths: Maxwell is renowned for his explosive batting and innovative stroke play. He can change the course of a match single-handedly with both bat and ball.
- Impact: Maxwell’s role as a finisher can be game-changing; his ability to score quickly in the death overs can help Australia post or chase challenging totals. Additionally, his off-spin bowling provides depth to the bowling lineup.
- Tim David
- Role: Middle-Order Batter
- Strengths: Known for his powerful hitting, David has a high strike rate and can clear boundaries with ease. His experience in various T20 leagues adds to his confidence.
- Impact: David’s role will be crucial in stabilizing or accelerating scoring during the middle overs. His ability to handle pressure situations makes him an essential player, especially if wickets fall early.
- Marcus Stoinis
- Role: All-rounder
- Strengths: Stoinis brings balance to the team with his hard-hitting capabilities and medium-pace bowling. He has experience playing in high-pressure situations.
- Impact: Stoinis can contribute significantly with both bat and ball, making him a valuable asset in T20 cricket. His all-round abilities allow Australia to adapt their strategy based on match situations.
- Aaron Hardie
- Role: All-rounder
- Strengths: Hardie is an emerging talent known for his versatility as a batter and bowler. His recent performances suggest he can handle pressure well.
- Impact: Hardie’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball provides depth to Australia’s lineup, especially if they need quick runs or crucial wickets.
- Nathan Ellis
- Role: Fast Bowler
- Strengths: Ellis has impressed with his pace and variations, making him effective in both powerplay and death overs. His control over line and length adds reliability to the bowling attack.
- Impact: Ellis’s role will be vital in taking early wickets or containing runs during critical phases of the match, especially against Pakistan’s strong batting lineup.
- Sean Abbott
- Role: Fast Bowler
- Strengths: Abbott is known for his ability to swing the ball and bowl yorkers at will. His experience in T20 cricket makes him a key figure in Australia’s bowling attack.
- Impact: Abbott’s role as a strike bowler can help dismantle Pakistan’s top order early on, providing Australia with crucial breakthroughs that could set the tone for their innings.
- Xavier Bartlett
- Role: Fast Bowler
- Strengths: Bartlett has made a strong start to his international career with impressive performances showcasing his pace and movement off the pitch.
- Impact: If given the new ball, Bartlett can exploit conditions at Gabba effectively, potentially troubling Pakistani openers with his skillful bowling.
- Adam Zampa
- Role: Spinner
- Strengths: Zampa is Australia’s leading spinner, known for his wicket-taking ability and control over runs during middle overs.
- Impact: Zampa’s role will be crucial in breaking partnerships and containing runs against Pakistan’s middle order, especially on surfaces that offer assistance to spin.