ICC World Cup 2019: Match 17, Pakistan vs Australia– Match Prediction
Jun 12, 2019 at 6:02 PM
Pakistan vs Australia is going to be one of the most exciting contests this week. Both the teams are in need of a win and the fans could not ask for a better time for this clash.
The defending champions had started their campaign on a high note with wins against Afghanistan and West Indies. However, they tasted their first defeat to favorites India in an exciting clash.
On the other hand, Pakistan had a mixed world cup so far. After getting demolished by West Indies in the first game, the team came back very strongly to defeat hosts England. But their third game to Sri Lanka got washed out before the toss.
Both the teams are keen to win the game at Taunton on Thursday. Australia have arguably the best pace attack in this mega event. Although, they could not be effective against India, the pacers will be keen to strike against Pakistan.
But Australia can take lot of positives from their batting display against India. The middle order clicked together for the first time since the start of world cup. The team can eye Mitchell Marsh as a batting all rounder in place of Marcus Stoinis for this match.
Australia are incredibly consistent in ODI cricket in recent months. They also won 5-0 against Pakistan recently in Abu Dhabi. However, Pakistan will eye a revenge in the mega event.
The main battle in this match will be Australian openers David Warner, Aaron Finch vs Pakistan pacers Mohammad Amir, Wahab Riaz in the opening spell. If the experienced Aussie openers can negotiate the first 10 overs, Australia will have a huge advantage.
Australia won 13 matches in the last 14 ODIs played against Pakistan.
Pakistan pacers were inspirational against hosts England. They played a huge role in restricting strong batting lineup of England. Wickets at crucial junctures helped Pakistan win a thrilling match.
Sarfaraz Ahmed will hope that Pakistan pacers are on right form at Taunton. Meanwhile, Babar Azam remains the key with the bat for the team. Although, others are chipping, Azam will hold the key for Pakistan batting.
Match Prediction
Australia will start the match as overwhelming favorites. However, Pakistan are no pushovers as they have proved against England.
But considering the quality and current form, Australia have a clear upper hand against Pakistan. Also, the fact that Pakistan lost so many games to Australia in recent times will do no good to Pakistan’s confidence.
Pakistan will give their best shot but Australia should win the game easily. There are also predictions of rain at Taunton on Wednesday. Lets keep our fingers crossed about weather.