Australia’s recent ODI series loss to Pakistan has sparked criticism, but the upcoming T20I series presents a different challenge. With a focus on building towards the 2026 T20 World Cup and 2028 Olympics, Australia is fielding a diminished side, providing opportunities for emerging players.
Josh Inglis, the permanent wicketkeeper, will captain the team, while Matthew Short and Jake Fraser-McGurk will open the batting. Nathan Ellis, Xavier Bartlett, and Spencer Johnson will bolster the bowling attack.
Pakistan, on the other hand, will seek to replicate their ODI bowling success, with Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf leading the charge. However, they may need to adjust their batting strategy, as Saim Ayub is not included in the squad.
Tim David, Australia’s T20 gun for hire, will be under scrutiny as he aims to regain his form as a finisher. Babar Azam, Pakistan’s star batter, will also be in the spotlight, with his strike rate under examination.
Australia will have at least three forced changes from their last T20I, while Pakistan is set to make at least five. The Gabba pitch is expected to provide pace and bounce for the fast bowlers, with the threat of rain and thunderstorms.
