Josh Inglis will assume the captaincy role following the conclusion of the second ODI at Adelaide and will lead the Men in Yellow in the third ODI as well as the forthcoming T20I series against Pakistan which is expected to commence on November 14. He will lead the side in the absence of premium stalwarts such as Mitch Marsh and Travis Head who are both unavailable due to paternity leave and Test preparation. 

In addition, Australia's Test and ODI skipper Pat Cummins and vice-captain Steve Smith will also not be available to feature for the remainder of the series in order to prepare for the grueling Border Gavaskar Test series. 

Inglis to lead a whole new-look Australia squad 

Following his captaincy appointment, Inglis becomes the 14th T20I captain and the 30th ODI captain to lead Australia. He will have his work cut out as his side will be without the services of experienced Cummins, Smith, Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Marnus Labuschagne, all of whom will be away to prepare for the much-awaited Border Gavaskar Test series. 

The squad will feature some fresh faces in the form of Xavier Bartlett, Spencer Johnson, and Josh Philippe who have made limited yet impactful international appearances for Australia in recent times. Moreover, Lance Morris has also been included as a cover for Josh Hazlewood and is likely to feature in the last ODI of the three-match series. 

Dissecting Inglis' captaincy background

Unlike his teammates Matt Short, Glenn Maxwell, Adam Zampa, and Nathan Ellis, Inglis does not have any credible captaincy experience under his belt. The 29-year-old does not have any captaincy experience at the BBL level unlike some of his fellow teammates. But the flamboyant wicket-keeper batter is widely renowned for his leadership qualities and his tactical instinct at the domestic level.  

Inglis served as the vice-captain for the Perth Scorchers during the previous season and played a significant role within their leadership team. He was a leading candidate to assume the captaincy following Ashton Turner's season-ending injury. However, Aaron Hardie was ultimately selected for the position. This decision was primarily influenced by a preference to avoid appointing a wicketkeeper as captain, particularly given the time constraints faced by the younger bowlers.

In the ongoing three-match ODI series, Australia have taken an early 1-0 lead following a nervy win at the MCG. The hosts will once again lock horns with the visitors in the second ODI at Adelaide where they will look to wrap up the series in one of the most clinical ways possible. 

See also: ICC WTC 2023-25: A saga of strange wins and shocking defeats

Pakistan’s seamer, Hasan Ali, stands out as one of the most lighthearted and entertaining characters within the team, consistently injecting a playful spirit into his on-field presence. This characteristic was vividly showcased during the third day of the Boxing Day Test against Australia. As Hasan Ali patrolled the boundary during the 53rd over bowled by Aamer Jamal, he spontaneously broke into dance moves, prompting the crowd to groove along with him, creating a lively and memorable moment.

The incident unfolded amid a backdrop of competitive cricket during the crucial Boxing Day Test. Ali’s impromptu dance moves, however, added a touch of exuberance to the game. The 53rd over, delivered by Aamer Jamal, became a stage for Ali’s spontaneous performance, drawing in the spectators who enthusiastically joined the impromptu dance session. The video of this joyous episode, shared by Cricket Australia on X, swiftly gained widespread attention, turning into a viral sensation.

See Also:PCB Rejects NOCs for Haris Rauf, Usama Mir, and Zaman Khan to Participate in Additional Matches –Reports

Notably, even Australian batsman Steve Smith couldn’t resist the infectious energy, and he was caught on camera with a grin, acknowledging and appreciating Hasan Ali’s entertaining antics. This instance not only added a light-hearted element to the competitive match but also exemplified the camaraderie and shared enjoyment between players and fans on the cricket field.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) made a crucial decision on Saturday, announcing Mohammad Nawaz as the replacement for left-arm spinner Noman Ali in the Test squad against Australia. The decision came after Noman Ali was ruled out of the ongoing Test series due to acute appendicitis, leading to his surgery on the same day. The national selection committee, headed by Wahab Riaz, approved Nawaz as the replacement, addressing the left-arm spinner void created by Noman’s unfortunate health condition.

Initially included in the squad to provide spin support to Abrar Ahmed, Noman Ali’s absence complicates Pakistan’s bowling situation, especially with Abrar already sidelined due to an injury. Sajid Khan was brought in as a replacement, but his late arrival in Perth prevented him from participating in the opening Test. PCB Chief Selector Wahab Riaz expressed regret over Noman Ali’s unavailability and highlighted the logistical challenges, including visa issues for new players. Considering the need for a left-arm spinner, Mohammad Nawaz emerged as the most suitable choice within the available constraints.

See Also:Kieron Pollard Appointed as Consultant Coach for England in the T20 World Cup 2024

In an official statement, Wahab Riaz explained the unfortunate circumstances and expressed hope regarding Abrar Ahmed’s potential return for the third Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground starting on January 3, 2024. The team management remains optimistic about Abrar’s availability, providing a potential boost to the team’s spin bowling options. Meanwhile, the second Test against Australia is set to begin at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 26.

Adding to Pakistan’s challenges, fast bowlers Khurram Shazad, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf are unavailable. Khurram Shazad reported pain in his left side earlier in the week, Naseem Shah is recovering from an injury, and Haris Rauf opted not to participate. This situation has led to the inclusion of debutants Aamer Jamal and Shahzad, along with Mir Hamza, Hasan Ali, and Mohammad Wasim Jr., forming the current fast bowling lineup for Pakistan against Australia.

Criticism has been directed at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for their alleged failure to manage player workloads, particularly in the case of premier fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi. There are indications that Afridi might be rested for the third and final Test against Australia in Sydney, pending the outcome of the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. This decision follows the substantial rib cage injury suffered by Khurrum Shahzad after his notable debut against Australia.

Following Pakistan’s loss in the first Test in Perth, where Khurram Shahzad was injured, there are concerns about the workload of pace bowlers, particularly T20 captain Shaheen Afridi. The PCB is keen on monitoring and managing their bowlers’ workload, considering the upcoming T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the United States, less than six months away, with the series against New Zealand playing a pivotal role in their preparations.

Amidst backlash and concerns over Shaheen Afridi’s form, there are discussions within the PCB about resting him for the Sydney Test if he doesn’t perform well in Melbourne and the team faces another defeat. This strategic move aims to keep Afridi fresh for the subsequent T20I series in New Zealand.

See Also:Perth Scorchers Skipper Ashton Turner Out for the Rest of Big Bash League Season Following Knee Surgery

Pakistan’s bowling attack is already weakened with the absence of injured Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf, who opted out of the series to participate in Australia’s T20 Big Bash League. Khurram Shahzad’s injury is a significant setback, prompting his return to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Lahore for comprehensive injury care and rehabilitation.

The team management is contemplating experimenting with a new opening combination of Saim Ayub and Babar Azam during the T20I series in New Zealand. This decision arises as the former Pakistan skipper, who has partnered with Muhammad Rizwan in T20s for the past few years, has been advised to prepare for a potential new opening partner. Pakistan faces challenges in reshaping their bowling unit and finding effective combinations amidst the ongoing series against Australia and the impending T20 contests in New Zealand.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has enlisted the services of Adam Hollioake as the batting coach for the upcoming three men’s Tests against Australia, slated to commence next month. Hollioake, an experienced figure with four Tests and 35 one-day internationals for England, is part of the revamped support staff for Pakistan’s men’s cricket team.

The restructuring within the Pakistan cricket team unfolded after the Cricket World Cup, leading to the demotion of head coach Grant Bradburn and team director Mickey Arthur. The reins have now been handed over to Naveed Akram Cheema and Mohammad Hafeez, who assume the roles of the new team director and head coach, respectively.

In the absence of Morne Morkel, the bowling department will be led by Umar Gul for fast bowling and Saeed Ajmal for spin. The coaching lineup also includes Australian Simon Helmot as the high-performance coach, Abdul Majeed overseeing fielding, and Mansoor Rana in the role of assistant team manager. Drikus Saaiman, the head of strength and conditioning, and physiotherapist Cliffe Deacon are among the few retaining their positions from the World Cup in India.

Adam Hollioake Joins as Batting Coach for Pakistan’s Test Tour of Australia amid Team Restructuring

Adam Hollioake, with previous coaching stints including collaborations with Hong Kong, Boost Defenders, and England Lions, was initially slated to join the England men’s team during the last Ashes series in Australia. However, his participation was hindered by a close contact testing positive for Covid-19.

See Also:Virat Kohli Set To Take Break From White-Ball Cricket,Expected to Return During IND vs SA Test Series

In the midst of these significant changes, Babar Azam stepped down as captain across formats. Shan Masood has taken the helm for the squad in Australia, while Shaheen Shah Afridi assumes the role of T20 skipper. These adjustments are specific to the Test tour and are expected to extend to the New Zealand T20Is. However, the decisions made by the interim PCB management committee may undergo reversal post the scheduled elections in February.

Australia kicks off their home summer with three Tests against Pakistan in Perth (December 14-18), followed by matches in Melbourne (December 26-30) and Sydney (January 3-7), aiming to maintain momentum in the series.

Pakistan’s upcoming tour of Australia will feature a notable 18-man squad, led by newly-appointed red-ball captain Shan Masood. Opening batter Saim Ayub, fast-bowling all-rounder Faheem Ashraf, and pacers Mir Hamza and Khurram Shahzad have earned spots in the squad for the three-test series scheduled in Perth (December 14-18), Melbourne (December 26-30), and Sydney (January 3-7).

Ayub, known for his T20I contributions, is set to make his Test debut after an impressive display in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy final, where he scored 203 and 109. With a total of 1069 runs in 14 first-class games, Ayub boasts an average of 46.47.

Khurram Shahzad, a right-arm seamer, has extensive first-class experience with 135 wickets at an average of 29.08. His outstanding performance in the 2023-24 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, where he emerged as the leading wicket-taker with 36 wickets at 20.30, secured his place in the squad.

See Also:BCCI Excludes Sanju Samson and Yuzvendra Chahal from India’s T20 Squad for Australia

Mir Hamza, the left-arm quick, was the second-highest wicket-taker in the same tournament, claiming 32 scalps at an average of 20.87. Although he has played three Tests, he currently holds two wickets to his name.

The squad also welcomes back Faheem Ashraf, who last played a Test in December 2022. Notably, Naseem Shah is still recovering from a shoulder injury, and Haris Rauf has made himself unavailable for selection, citing concerns about his body, fitness, and workload.

Chief selector Wahab Riaz expressed disappointment in Rauf’s last-minute withdrawal, emphasizing the importance of players sacrificing for national duty. This series holds significance for Babar Azam, who resigned as the team captain last week. The last time Pakistan played a Test series in Australia was in 2019, where they suffered defeats in both games.

Pakistan squad:

• Shan Masood (c)
• Aamer Jamal
• Abdullah Shafique
• Abrar Ahmed
• Babar Azam
• Faheem Ashraf
• Hasan Ali
• Imam-ul-Haq
• Khurram Shahzad
• Mir Hamza
• Mohammad Rizwan
• Mohammad Wasim Jnr
• Nauman Ali
• Saim Ayub
• Salman Agha
• Sarfaraz Ahmed
• Saud Shakeel
• Shaheen Afridi

PAK vs AUS Match Preview

On Tuesday afternoon and evening, the Rajiv Ghandi International Stadium in Hyderabad will host the Pakistan vs. Australia World Cup Warm-Up match. Pakistan were defeated by New Zealand by 5 wickets on Friday, while Australia’s game against the Netherlands ended in a draw. Pakistan has been playing some excellent one-day international cricket over the last 18 months, but has struggled in recent games. This will be a difficult match against Australia. Australia had been on a bad run before beating India at the end of their ODI series, and they were leading against the Netherlands on Saturday before the rain came. This will provide a good indication of their skill level.

PAK vs AUS Match Details

Pakistan vs Australia – Warm-Up Match

Venue: Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium – Hyderabad

Date & Time: 03rd October 2023 at 02:00 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Fancode App

PAK vs AUS Venue Stats

PAK vs AUS Pitch Report

This is a good batting wicket in Hyderabad, with a par score of around 380. This pitch has good pace and bounce.

PAK vs AUS Weather Report

We anticipate a dry afternoon and evening in Hyderabad for this game. Throughout the match, the temperature will be in the high 20s.

PAK vs AUS Last Five Matches

PAK vs AUS Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

PAK vs AUS Probable Playing XIs:

Pakistan Probable Playing XIs

Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saud Shakeel, Agha Salman, Shabad Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim, Shaheen Shah Afridi

Australia Probable Playing XIs

David Warner, Steve Smith, Mitchell Marsh, Marnus Labuschagne,  Alex Carey (wk), Glenn Maxwell, Cameron Green, Marcus Stoinis, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins (c), Adam Zampa

Topmost Picks for PAK vs AUS Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Pakistan

• Babar Azam – The captain continues to perform at a very high level in this format of the game. Against a strong New Zealand bowling attack, he impressed once again in the last match.
• Shaheen Shah Afridi – the left-arm quick bowler will be relishing the opportunity to bowl at some of the big name Australian batters in Hyderabad.

Top Picks – Australia

• Steve Smith – The right-handed top order batter is sometimes accused of not having the big shots required in this format but he is very strong at not giving his wicket away and making large scores.
• Mitchell Starc – The opening bowler has an excellent record in World Cups and we expect him to be a threat across the next two months during this tournament.

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for PAK vs AUS Dream11 Team:

Mohammad Rizwan, Babar Azam(C), Mitchell Marsh, David Warner(VC), Saud Shakeel, Shabad Khan, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Haris Rauf, Shaheen Shah Afridi

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for PAK vs AUS Dream11 Team:

Mohammad Rizwan(VC), Babar Azam, Mitchell Marsh(C), David Warner, Saud Shakeel, Shabad Khan, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Haris Rauf, Shaheen Shah Afridi

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Mitchell Marsh, Babar Azam

Vice-captain – Mohammad Rizwan, David Warner

Wicketkeeper – Mohammad Rizwan

PAK vs AUS Probable Winners:

This should be an excellent game for neutral fans, as two teams with genuine hopes of winning the 2023 World Cup go head to head, despite their lack of form. Pakistan’s bowling attack is capable of destroying any team, and they also have some very reliable batters. However, we believe that Australia’s experienced players will make the difference, and we predict a win for Australia. Considering the team combination, Australia is expected to win this match.