The Pakistan-Australia ODI series has thus far provided the exact kind of action the cricket fans were hoping for.
Australia bounced back in the second ODI of the series to emerge victorious by 41 runs in Lahore but Pakistan consolidated their momentum in the first game with a five-wicket win in Rawalpindi.
The series is currently tied.
Now the competition is on and all eyes are on the third and final ODI at Gaddafi Stadium on June 4.
Pakistan will be depending on the home advantage and also the form of main players like Salman Ali Agha and Babar Azam.
Agha has been the most consistent batsman for Pakistan in recent games and Babar’s experience and the ability to come in at the end and anchor the innings are key in the pressure situations.
Pakistan will depend on Shaheen Shah Afridi and Abrar Ahmed with the ball to provide important breakthroughs at crucial moments and lead the attack.
Australia, on the other hand, are entering the decider with a strong momentum as the result of their impressive second ODI performance.
Visitors have had a couple of big performers, with Matt Renshaw and Cameron Green providing much heat in the middle order.
They have also demonstrated their bowling firepower, led by Adam Zampa and Nathan Ellis, and can give Pakistan’s batting line up a hard time.
The pitch is expected to be a good batter’s delight at Gaddafi Stadium, though spinners may prove to be important later in the game.
Given the good weather forecast and lack of rain, it is expected that the fans will get a 100 over match.
After a series that has been played competitively by both sides, the third ODI will certainly be the most exciting match of the tour.
Pakistan will try to make an impact at home and Australia will be keen to achieve a memorable series victory.
This is a cricketing must watch matchup.
At the end of the evening, one team will be victorious with the trophy.
Also read: Shaheen eyes strong comeback in decisive ODI against Australia
