The 17-member Australian squad for the three-match T20 series against Pakistan has arrived in Lahore, with the second group of players scheduled to land later tonight. Captain Mitchell Marsh and Josh Inglis will miss the first match to play in the Big Bash League final, with Travis Head likely to lead the side in their absence.
Australia, led by Marsh, will play the first T20 against Pakistan on Thursday. Meanwhile, the host team continued preparations on the third day of their training camp at Gaddafi Stadium.
The Australian squad is missing several star players, including Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Glenn Maxwell, who are also part of their World Cup squad. Despite arriving without prior practice sessions in Pakistan, the visiting players will take part in the first T20 immediately, with both captains scheduled to address the media on Wednesday afternoon following the trophy unveiling.
All three matches will be played at Gaddafi Stadium, where a large turnout of fans is expected. Security and other arrangements for the smooth conduct of the series have been finalised by the authorities.
Pakistan’s team continued intensive training on the third day of their camp, including warm-up exercises, net practice, and fielding drills. Coaching staff focused on batting, bowling, and fielding techniques to prepare the team for all possible match scenarios. Players have shown strong confidence ahead of the series.
Team management stated that the series against a strong Australian side will provide an excellent opportunity to test the current combination. The Pakistan-Australia T20 series is being viewed as a key preparatory stage for both teams ahead of the World Cup.
Although several key Australian players are absent, the visitors still possess experienced and talented cricketers capable of turning matches at any moment. Pakistan, on the other hand, aims to leverage home conditions to gain an early advantage in the series.
