SHARJAH: Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first against Australia in the second One Day International (ODI) at Sharjah Stadium.
Talking after the toss, Pakistan Captain Shoaib Malik stated that fast bowler Muhammad Husnain is making debut in the match.
After succumbing to an eight-wicket loss in the first of five one-day internationals against Australia, Pakistan will be keen to make a swift comeback.
Pakistan looked comfortable for most of their innings after opting to bat in the opening ODI, but a flurry of wickets in the last 15 overs saw them post a below par 280/5. The run-rate too remained below 6 through the 50 overs.
Haris Sohail’s century was the bright spot for the hosts in an otherwise timid batting display. They will want the rest of the line-up to make a strong claim for their spots, especially with the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019 just a couple of months away. Shan Masood and Umar Akmal, both of whom notched up 40-plus scores but could not kick on, will want to convert their starts in the second ODI.
The bowling unit, spearheaded by the experienced Mohammad Amir, was also rendered ineffective by Australia’s counterpunch. Mohammad Abbas, in particular, will want to grab the opportunity with both hands. Pakistan might consider bringing in Junaid Khan for the second game.
Australia, on the other side, are brimming with confidence. After coming back from 2-0 down to win the ODI series 3-2 against India, they have made an instant statement against Pakistan as well. The team took time to find their right combination after Steve Smith and David Warner were suspended, but now seem to have turned into a well-oiled machine.
