Pakistan vs Australia – 3rd One-Day International Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When is Pakistan vs Australia taking place? Saturday, April 2nd, 2022 – 11:00 (UK)
Where is Pakistan vs Australia taking place? Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
What is the expected weather for Pakistan vs Australia? 27-36c 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
Pakistan beat Australia by six wickets
THE TEAM NEWS
PAKISTAN
- A high-scoring thriller last time out in Lahore saw Pakistan level this three-match ODI series, forcing a decider after pulling off an outstanding run chase of 349 with six wickets and an over to spare.
- Centuries from both Imam ul-Haq and captain Babar Azam led the hosts to victory, whilst the return of Shaheen Shah Afridi was most welcome, the left-arm fast bowler taking four wickets although all-rounder Shadab Khan was not passed fit and may not be ready in time for this final match.
AUSTRALIA
- Despite scoring 348/8 off their 50 overs, it did not prove enough for Australia who suffered without the availability of their frontline fast bowling attack, not to mention Ashton Agar, who missed out following a positive Covid-19 test.
- The batting of the tourists is still strong, but bowling options are limited with a lack of pace particularly prevalent, so there is plenty of emphasis on their spin-bowling attack of Adam Zampa and Mitchell Swepson.
THE PREDICTION
Australia’s lack of bodies due to a combination of injuries and Covid-19 finally seemed to get the better of them in the second ODI with their subpar bowling unit put to the sword by Pakistan. The stage is therefore set for what should be a thoroughly enjoyable final match with another high scoring contest expected. Whilst Pakistan have momentum in their favour, Australia contains arguably more firepower with the bat in terms of boundaries. However, in Pakistan pace bowling can be so vital and Australia are desperately lacking on that front, but the return of Shaheen has come at an excellent time for the hosts. As was the case in the second ODI, this encounter should go down to the wire with either side capable of coming out on top. Ultimately, with Pakistan less affected via injuries/Covid plus home advantage being in their favour, the shrewd move would be to back Babar Azam’s men to win the series.
