Pakistan’s confidence is soaring as they prepare for the decisive third ODI against Australia at the Optus Stadium in Perth. The visitors have been in scintillating form, led by the fiery bowling of Haris Rauf, who has claimed eight wickets in the series so far.
Pakistan’s victory in the second ODI in Adelaide was a clinical display of pace bowling and aggressive batting. Saim Ayub, the young opener, played a key role in the win, treating Australia’s frontline attack with disdain.
Australia, on the other hand, will be without several key players, including Pat Cummins, Steven Smith, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Marnus Labuschagne, who are preparing for the upcoming Test series against India. Josh Inglis will captain Australia for the first time, facing the daunting task of galvanizing a new-look team.
The Optus Stadium is expected to provide a fast and bouncy surface, which should suit Pakistan’s pace attack. Rauf, in particular, will be looking to exploit the extra bounce and continue his impressive form.
Pakistan’s batting has also been in good touch, with Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan providing stability at the top of the order. Kamran Ghulam and Salman Agha have also made valuable contributions.
Australia’s batting has been a concern, with openers Matt Short and Jake Fraser-McGurk struggling for form. Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis will need to step up and provide some much-needed runs.
The series has taken on added significance ahead of the upcoming Champions Trophy in Pakistan. Both teams will be eager to gain momentum and confidence before the tournament.
