Optus Stadium, Perth (Source:@VKBA1856/X.com)
The stage is set for the third and final ODI between Australia and Pakistan and it is a big decider after Rizwan and his boys displayed great character to win the second game of the series. It is a pressure game, and both sides would be looking to put their best foot forward as the Optus Stadium in Perth gets ready for the high-octane clash.
Australia though have made some big changes in the squad. They have rested their skipper Pat Cummins along with Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marnus Labuschagne and Josh Hazlewood with Test series against India coming up, and it would be interesting to see how the Aussies will go about their business under their new skipper Josh Inglis.
Pakistan, on the other hand, would be high on confidence after a dominating win in the second game. Their bowlers did brilliantly with Haris Rauf leading from the front with five wickets. Their openers also did quite well and they would be looking to continue that momentum into the final game as well.
So, with plenty of things to look forward, let's see how the pitch will behave in the the third ODI between Australia and Pakistan.
Optus Stadium Perth ODI Ground Stats
Criterion | Data |
---|---|
Matches Played | 5 |
Matches won batting first | 1 |
Matches won batting second | 4 |
Average 1st innings score | 178 |
Average 2nd innings score | 177 |
Highest total recorded | 259/10 by ENG vs AUS |
Optus Stadium Pitch Report: Batters Or Bowlers, Who Will Be More Successful?
The surface in Perth is known for its pace and bounce. The pacers generally enjoy the conditions and are likely to make maximum impact in this game too. The batters will have to apply themselves and adjust to the bounce of the wicket as well as the seam movement that will be on offer at the Optus Stadium. However, the batters with good backfoot game can score runs on this pitch too, but a score around 250 would be a competitive one on this pitch.
Also, the team winning the toss would like to bowl first and gauge the conditions as it has been successful in the last two matches.
Players To Watch Out For At Optus Stadium In Perth
Haris Rauf
Haris Rauf has enjoyed bowling in Australian conditions so far and has picked eight wickets in two matches. He is likely to enjoy bowling at the Optus stadium too which has good bounce and his genuine pace and ability to hit the deck hard can prove handy for Pakistan. So, he surely is a player to watch out.
Marcus Stoinis
Marcus Stoinis did not play the initial two games of the series, but with star players not available for this game, the all-rounder is likely to get a go in this one. He is a genuine match-winner and can make an impact both with the bat and ball. The pitch will also help his style of play and he would be itching to deliver a big performance to stake his claim for a regular spot in this game,
Babar Azam
Babar Azam has been at the centre of criticism in recent times. He was even dropped from the side during the Test series and this ODI series was expected to be a big one for the right-hander. He did not get a lot of time to bat in the second game and scored unbeaten 15 while in the first match, he looked in good touch during his 37 off 44 balls.
So, he has shown decent form so far, and the final game is a perfect opportunity for him to score big in pressure game.