PAK vs AUS 1st T20I: The Gabba Brisbane Pitch Report

Debashis Sarangi

The Gabba, Brisbane [Source: @anussaeed1/X]The Gabba, Brisbane [Source: @anussaeed1/X]

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After securing a historic 2-1 win in the ODI leg, Pakistan are all set to face Australia in a three-match T20I series starting tomorrow. The first match of the much-awaited series will be played at The Gabba in Brisbane, Australia. 

Mohammad Rizwan's captaincy stint has started on a very positive note, with the experienced keeper-batter leading his team to a clinical victory in the Australia ODIs. However, the shortest format will be a litmus test for the skipper, as Pakistan have a relatively young and inexperienced side to face the mighty Aussies. In such a scenario, the onus will be on Rizwan, Usman Khan and the holy trinity of Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf, who will be the key players for the visitors. 

The same statement holds true for Australia as well. Their several all-format players won't feature in this series, with numerous BBL talents getting an opportunity to showcase their mettle against an in-form Pakistani outfit. The likes of Jake Fraser-McGurk, Josh Inglis, Marcus Stoinis and Matthew Short will spearhead Australia's batting, while Xavier Bartlett, Spencer Johnson and Adam Zampa will be pivotal on the bowling front. 

So, as the stage is set for a cracking battle, let's see how the surface at the Gabba will behave throughout the contest.

The Gabba Brisbane Stats And Records In T20Is

Criterion
Data
Matches played10
Matches won batting 1st7
Matches won batting 2nd3
Average 1st innings score166
Average 2nd innings score146
Average runs per over8.23


The Gabba Brisbane Pitch Report: Is it batting or bowling-friendly?

The surface at The Gabba in Brisbane generally provides favourable conditions to the fast bowlers. Apart from a hint of lateral movement, the pitch is known for its tendency to offer genuine pace and extra bounce to the seamers throughout the match. Expect the ball to come quickly and rise high after pitching.

However, it's worth mentioning that the track won't be a nightmare for the batters if they neutralise the initial seam movement and get on top of the bounce while playing their shots. An average scoring rate of 8.23 indicates decent batting conditions only if you are a good player of pace and movement. 

The spinners generally don't play a key role here, as the ball skids through after pitching. So, it will be important for the spinners to be accurate, deceive the batters with their variations and bring the big boundaries into play. Having said that, Adam Zampa could be a key player courtesy of his ability to thrive regardless of conditions.

Considering the true pace and bounce of the pitch, the toss-winning team might be tempted to bowl first despite the track record suggesting otherwise.

Players To Watch Out For At The Gabba Brisbane

Marcus Stoinis

  • The veteran Australian cricketer will play a crucial role for his side, thanks to his all-round attributes. Stoinis has enjoyed stellar success with the bat at this venue, amassing 297 runs in eight T20 innings at an average of 49.50 and a strike rate of 163.18. 

Xavier Bartlett

  • The right-arm speedster has impressive numbers at The Gabba, scalping 20 wickets in 13 innings at a strike rate of 12.90. Considering he plays for Brisbane Heat at this venue, Bartlett might be a threat to the Pakistani top order. 

Haris Rauf

  • Pakistan's premier fast bowler Haris Rauf has showcased remarkable form on the Australian tour. He loves bowling on Australia's pace-friendly pitches and will once again be a crucial player for his team.