Pakistan vs Australia T20I series, ultimate guide, when are the matches, schedule, how to watch and stream, squads, latest news

Australia is set to tour Pakistan for a three-match Twenty20 International (T20I) series, a crucial preparation phase ahead of the upcoming World Cup. The series will provide a competitive platform for both teams to fine-tune their strategies and player combinations.

Squad Updates and Emerging Talent

The Australian squad features several new faces, with Mahli Beardman and Jack Edwards in line to potentially make their T20I debuts. A number of players initially named in the T20 World Cup group have been rested for this series, including Sean Abbott, Beardman, Pat Cummins, the injured Tim David, Travis Head, and Glenn Maxwell.

Did You Know? The Australian squad for this series includes 17 players: Mitch Marsh (c), Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Mahli Beardman, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Jack Edwards, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Mitch Owen, Josh Philippe, Matthew Renshaw, Matt Short, Marcus Stonis, and Adam Zampa.

Babar Azam’s Return to International Duty

For Pakistan, the series marks Babar Azam’s return to international cricket after his stint with the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League was cut short. Azam’s return to Pakistan was to prepare for these international duties, making him unavailable for the Sixers’ final two matches, including the championship final.

Azam recently found himself at the center of attention following an on-field incident during a Big Bash League match. After Steve Smith declined an obvious single, Azam reportedly expressed his frustration, retreating from his teammates at the SCG and declining to shake hands with opposing players post-match.

Expert Insight: The reported incident involving Babar Azam highlights the intense competitive spirit often present in international cricket, even during domestic league play. Such moments can underscore the pressure players face and the importance of maintaining composure in high-stakes situations.

Match Details and Broadcast Information

The series will be played across three dates, with all matches scheduled to begin at 10pm AEDT. The first T20I is on January 29, followed by the second on January 31, and the third on February 1. Fox Cricket will provide live and exclusive coverage of all three matches via Foxtel and streaming on Kayo.

Squad Lists

Australia squad: Mitch Marsh (c), Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Mahli Beardman, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Jack Edwards, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Mitch Owen, Josh Philippe, Matthew Renshaw, Matt Short, Marcus Stonis, Adam Zampa.

Pakistan squad: Salman Ali Agha (capt), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafay, Mohammad Nawaz, Salman Mirza, Mohammad Wasim, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan, Usman Tariq.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the Pakistan vs Australia T20I series begin?

The first T20I match is scheduled for January 29 at 10pm AEDT.

Where can I watch the series?

The only place to watch all three matches is on Fox Cricket, via Foxtel and streaming on Kayo.

Which players are not included in the Australian squad for this series but were named in the T20 World Cup group?

Sean Abbott, Beardman, Pat Cummins, Tim David (injury), Travis Head and Glenn Maxwell were left out of this squad.

As both teams prepare for the challenges ahead, will this series provide a clear indication of their respective strengths and weaknesses heading into the World Cup?