Pakistan vs Australia – 2nd One-Day International Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When is Pakistan vs Australia taking place? Thursday, March 31st, 2022 – 11:00 (UK)
Where is Pakistan vs Australia taking place? Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
What is the expected weather for Pakistan vs Australia? 29-35c dry, with bright sunshine before clear skies later and light winds throughout
What channel is Pakistan vs Australia on? The match will be televised live on Sky Sports
Where can I stream Pakistan vs Australia? The match can be streamed live via the Sky Go App
LAST MEETING
Australia beat Pakistan by 88 runs
THE TEAM NEWS
PAKISTAN
- The late withdrawal of fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi due to a knee injury suffered in net practice proved a massive blow for Pakistan in the first ODI, with their bowling attack significantly weakened and this ultimately led to their defeat after conceding 313 runs to Australia despite winning the toss.
- The likelihood is that Shaheen will not be available again for this second ODI, whilst all-rounder Shadab Khan is also expected to be absent, two key players for the hosts.
AUSTRALIA
- Australia racked up 313/7 after being asked to bat by Pakistan in the first ODI before bowling the hosts out for 225, Travis Head and Adam Zampa both starring for the Aussies with the former scoring 101 in just 72 balls opening the batting, before Zampa picked up a four-wicket-haul.
- It’s a testament to Australia’s strength-in-depth that they were without the likes of Steve Smith, Mitchell Marsh, David Warner and still came through to win, whilst both Ashton Agar and Josh Philippe will also miss this second ODI with each having tested positive for Covid-19.
THE PREDICTION
The outcome of this contest largely depends on the availability of Pakistan’s star names. Without the likes of Shaheen and Shadab, the home nation’s bowling attack are likely to struggle again against an Australian batting unit strong in depth and the tourists are likely to outscore Pakistan whether they be batting first or second. Be sure not to make any moves until the teams have been revealed, but should Pakistan be without those two key names, consider backing Australia to record a second successive victory in this ODI series.
