Pakistan captain Shaheen Afridi won the toss and opted to bowl first after assessing what appeared to be a slow and low surface. The hosts will be hoping their pace attack, led by Shaheen and Haris Rauf, can make early inroads and put Australia under pressure. The match also carries added significance as Pakistan take the field for their 1,000th ODI, becoming one of the few nations to reach the landmark.
Australia, led by Josh Inglis, are entering their first ODI assignment since defeating India 2-1 in a home series last year. The visitors have named an interesting blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talent, with young batter Oliver Peake making his ODI debut. Inglis praised the youngster’s temperament and expressed confidence in his ability to deliver on the big stage.
Pakistan will be keen to put behind their recent 2-1 series defeat against Bangladesh and make a strong statement at home. Australia, meanwhile, will look to continue their positive run in the format and begin their World Cup preparations on the right note. With quality players on both sides and important points of pride at stake, the series opener promises an intriguing battle in Rawalpindi.
