World Cup 2023, AUS vs PAK | Playing 11 Prediction, Cricket Tips, Preview & Live Streaming

Australia vs Pakistan promises to be a fascinating contest (Twitter)

Two cricketing giants, Australia and Pakistan, are set to square off in what promises to be a thrilling encounter in Match 18 of the World Cup 2023 at Bengaluru's M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Friday, October 20.

AUS vs PAK: Team Previews

Australia

Five-time World Cup champions Australia haven't had the smoothest start to their campaign this year. Facing a discouraging start, the Aussies suffered back-to-back losses at the hands of powerhouses India and South Africa. They were defeated by India with six wickets to spare and then brutally outplayed by South Africa, who thrashed them by 134 runs.

Their saving grace came when they faced Sri Lanka, securing a commanding win. Nevertheless, their inconsistency, especially from the top order, and Steve Smith's lack of form have been pressing concerns. The Australian pacers, usually a formidable force, have also been relatively subdued, unable to strike consistently. The team will be itching to address these issues and gain momentum by defeating Pakistan.

Pakistan

In contrast, Pakistan commenced its World Cup journey with an enviable flair. Claiming decisive victories over the Netherlands and Sri Lanka, they were looking formidable until they clashed with arch-rivals India.

India proved to be a stumbling block, revealing vulnerabilities in Pakistan's middle order and leaving their bowlers searching for answers. To get back to winning momentum and bring their campaign back on track, Pakistan's middle-order batsmen and spinners will have to recalibrate and deliver against an Australian side that's seeking resurgence.

AUS vs PAK: Match Details & Live Streaming

---

ALSO READ

'Virat Kohli Better Than Sachin Tendulkar in ODIs': AUS Star Makes 'BOLD' Statement

---

AUS vs PAK: Pitch Report

The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, known for its batting-friendly pitch, might end up being a crucial player in this face-off. With its notoriously short boundaries, batsmen often have a field day, sending deliveries across the fence with relative ease. Historically, spinners have struggled to make an impact here, with batters capitalizing on the shorter boundaries. The pitch's characteristics, including the ball coming onto the bat beautifully along with the reliable bounce, make it a paradise for stroke-makers. The dew factor, commonly observed during evening matches, often tilts the scales in favour of teams batting second. As such, both teams might mull over fielding first if they win the toss. With an average score hovering around 290 runs, fans can anticipate a high-scoring thriller.

AUS vs PAK: Probable Playing XIs

Australia: David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Marcus Stoinis, Josh Inglis (wk), Glenn Maxwell, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Adam Zampa

Pakistan: Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafiq, Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saud Shakeel, Agha Salman, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Afridi

AUS vs PAK: Cricket Exchange Fantasy Tips

AUS vs PAK: Prediction

Despite early setbacks in World Cup 2023, Australia are the favourites heading into the clash. Their comeback win against Sri Lanka attests to their resilience and champion pedigree. With a potent mix of experience and youth and a history of thriving under pressure, Australia stands as the likely frontrunner for the upcoming match at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.

---

ALSO READ

M Chinnaswamy Stadium Bengaluru Pitch Report For AUS Vs PAK World Cup Match

---