The Pakistan cricket team has arrived in Hobart from Sydney for the crucial third T20I of their ongoing series against Australia. The match is scheduled to take place on November 18, 2024, at 7:00 PM local time (1:00 PM Pakistan Standard Time) at the iconic Bellerive Oval.
After a disappointing loss in the second T20I in Sydney, where Pakistan failed to chase down Australia’s modest target, the team is eager to bounce back and level the series. The defeat left Pakistan in a precarious position, needing a victory to avoid a series loss. However, the team is determined to regroup and capitalize on this vital opportunity to even the series, which currently stands 1-0 in Australia’s favor.
Australia, buoyed by their victory in the second match, will look to extend their dominance and secure the series win. The hosts are in strong form and are expected to bring their best performance in Hobart to seal the deal. Both teams are highly motivated, making the third T20I a must-win contest, which promises to be an exciting and decisive clash.
Team News: With the series already in hand, Australia is unlikely to make significant changes for the final match. Pacer Spencer Johnson, who delivered a career-best performance of 5-26 in the second T20I, is expected to lead the bowling attack once again. Australia’s new opening pair, Matthew Short and Jake Fraser-McGurk, has shown promise, though they have yet to hit their peak. With the series secured, they may look to accelerate their game in Hobart.
Australia’s Predicted XI: Matthew Short, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Tim David, Josh Inglis (c & wk), Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Spencer Johnson, Xavier Bartlett.
On the Pakistan side, skipper Mohammad Rizwan is expected to continue opening alongside Babar Azam, while Sahibzada Farhan may remain at No. 3. Despite the loss in Sydney, Pakistan could maintain this top order. Left-arm wrist spinner Sufiyan Muqeem, who impressed in his debut with crucial wickets of Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis, is expected to keep his spot in the XI. His inclusion adds a fresh dimension to Pakistan’s bowling attack, which has traditionally been pace-heavy.
Pakistan Predicted XI: Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk), Usman Khan, Sahibzada Farhan, Sufiyan Muqeem, Salman Agha, Haris Rauf, Shaheen Afridi, Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah.
Both teams will look to make a strong statement in this final encounter, ensuring an exciting contest for fans across the globe.
