Babar Azam is back for Pakistan after being dropped in the last two Tests against England, and all eyes will be on him as he looks to stake his claim. Babar is having one of his worst-ever year and would love to make a statement in the first ODI against Australia at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. This match also marks the first game under Mohammad Rizwan’s captaincy. Pakistan are slated to play 3 ODIs and as many T20Is against the current ODI World Champions.
New era begins under Muhammad Rizwan
Pakistan have announced their lineup for the first ODI against Australia, scheduled for November 4 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). This match also marks the beginning of Pakistan’s preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Young talents Saim Ayub and Muhammad Irfan Khan will make their ODI debuts, bringing fresh faces and dynamics to the team.
AUS vs PAK: Lineup changes and new faces
The lineup features four changes from Pakistan’s last ODI appearance in the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. Alongside the new debutants, Kamran Ghulam and Mohammad Hasnain make their return to the team after nearly two years. Hasnain’s impressive performance in the Champions One-Day Cup earned him a spot, while Ghulam secured his spot with strong domestic performances.
Batting Lineup: Experience meets youth ft. Babar Azam
The batting lineup boasts a well-rounded mix of experience and fresh energy. Debutant Saim Ayub will open the batting with Abdullah Shafique, followed by star batsman Babar Azam. The middle-order lineup includes:
- Debutant Saim Ayub
- Abdullah Shafique
- Babar Azam
- Captain Mohammad Rizwan
- Kamran Ghulam
- Salman Ali Agha
- Debutant: Muhammad Irfan Khan
Bowling Department: Pace and Spin
In the bowling department, Pakistan will rely on a four-pronged pace attack featuring:
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
- Naseem Shah
- Haris Rauf
- Mohammad Hasnain
Salman Ali Agha will provide the spin option, offering flexibility in the lineup.
Pakistan playing XI for 1st ODI vs Australia
Abdullah Shafique, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (c), Kamran Ghulam, Salman Ali Agha (vc), Muhammad Irfan Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf and Mohammad Hasnain
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