RAWALPINDI: Australian all-rounder Matt Short has predicted a fiercely-contested ODI series against Pakistan, expressing confidence that Australia’s blend of youth and experience would make the three-match battle a thrilling affair.
Speaking after Australia’s intense training session at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Monday, Short described Pakistan as one of the strongest white-ball sides in world cricket and admitted that facing them on home soil was never an easy assignment.
“Pakistan is one of the leading teams around. Whenever and wherever you play them, it becomes a challenge,” Short said. “But we are ready for that challenge as we have a good combination of experienced campaigners and exciting youngsters capable of making this an entertaining series.”
The Australian all-rounder singled out emerging batter Ollie Peake for praise, insisting that the ongoing series would provide an ideal platform for Australia’s next generation to prove their credentials ahead of bigger assignments.
“Though the World Cup is still some time away, every series from now onwards is important in shaping combinations for that mega event,” he said. “This tour offers a valuable opportunity to test young talent at the highest level.”
Short also brushed aside concerns over Australia’s disappointing campaign in the recent T20 World Cup, saying the visitors had arrived in Pakistan with renewed determination and confidence.
“That is now part of the past,” he remarked. “We are here with fresh energy and the hope of winning the series. We did not perform to expectations in the World Cup and our recent white-ball results against Pakistan have not been encouraging either, but this is a new beginning and hopefully the results will be positive for us.”
Commenting on the challenging weather conditions in Rawalpindi, the Australian star said his side was fully prepared to adapt. “I don’t think weather will pose any real threat to us. Australian players are used to competing in different conditions,” he said. “A number of our players have just come from the IPL, so acclimatising won’t be difficult.
