PAK vs AUS: Australia Tough To Beat Despite Absence Of Main Players - Fakhar Zaman Ahead Of Limited-Overs Series

Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman has said that despite missing a handful of main players like Pat Cummins and David Warner, Australia is a tough team to beat, ahead of the upcoming three-match ODI series and one-off T20I match.

Pakistan lost the Test series 1-0, both teams fought well throughout the matches, and the first two Tests ended in a draw while the third Test result was decided on the last day. It was only the third time Australia had won a Test series in Australia. Richie Benaud-led Australia won for the first time in 1959 and then Mark Taylor captained the Kangaroos to Test series win in 1998.

Now the caravan moves to the three ODI matches which begin on March 28 with all the 50-over encounters and the only T20I to be played in Lahore itself.

We Want To Improve Our Rankings From No.9 And Win Against Australia: Fakhar Zaman

Pakistan opening batter Fakhar Zaman is satisfied with his white-ball cricket form and looking forward to performing well against Australia in the upcoming ODI series. The visitors will be missing a few key players including David Warner, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Steve Smith, and Mitchell Marsh.

“I am happy with my performance in the white-ball format. We will face a tough team like Australia and try to take advantage of the home conditions. We are currently ranked at number nine, so our mindset is to win all three matches, get some points for the ICC Championship, and improve our rank,” Fakhar said during a virtual press conference.

“Australia is missing some big names. They are huge stars, and it will make a difference. Still, Australia is a strong team, and they fight hard under all circumstances in all conditions. We cannot take them lightly. We are looking forward to some healthy competition,” Fakhar stated.

The left-handed batter has been one of the top performers for Pakistan. He is the only batter to score a double century for the Men in Green in ODIs.

“I am well prepared for the series, and the Australian team combination is good. Although they are missing a few players still, they are a good team, and we are hoping for a good competition. I will play according to the plan given to me by the coaches and captain. I always try to play a long inning,” Fakhar further added.

The Pakistan side has played only one ODI in the last eight months.

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