The Men’s International Twenty20 Match between Pakistan and Australia will be played at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore on 29 January. The match is scheduled to begin at 18:30 IST, converted from a 13:00 UK start time, and brings two of world cricket’s most exciting T20 sides head-to-head under lights. With Lahore renowned for passionate crowds and high-intensity cricket, this fixture promises a fiercely contested encounter.
Form Guide
Pakistan
Pakistan remain one of the most unpredictable yet dangerous teams in T20 cricket. At home, they are particularly formidable, using familiar conditions and crowd support to apply pressure through disciplined bowling and explosive batting spells.
- Strong pace attack capable of striking early with the new ball.
- Middle order packed with players who thrive in high-pressure chases.
- Occasional inconsistency when momentum swings against them.
Australia
Australia continue to evolve as a T20 side, blending power hitting with tactical clarity. Their recent performances have shown improved adaptability, though subcontinental conditions remain a demanding test of their skills and patience.
- Powerful batting line-up capable of posting big totals.
- Fast bowlers effective when extracting bounce and pace.
- Spin resources can be tested on slower surfaces.
Key Players
Pakistan
- Babar Azam – A world-class batter whose timing and composure anchor the innings.
- Mohammad Rizwan – Consistent run-scorer who excels in setting up chases.
- Shaheen Shah Afridi – A strike bowler capable of game-changing spells with the new ball.
Australia
- David Warner – An aggressive opener well suited to high-scoring contests.
- Glenn Maxwell – A dynamic all-rounder who can alter momentum in a few overs.
- Mitchell Starc – A left-arm quick offering pace and yorkers at crucial stages.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Gaddafi Stadium traditionally provides a good batting surface with even bounce, particularly under lights. Early movement can assist fast bowlers, but as the innings progresses, stroke play becomes easier and boundaries flow freely. Spinners who vary pace effectively can still play an important role in the middle overs. Evening conditions in Lahore are expected to be clear and pleasant, with dew potentially influencing the second innings and favouring the chasing side.
Pakistan vs Australia – Prediction
This contest shapes up as a classic battle between Pakistan’s pace and consistency and Australia’s power and depth. If Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan can provide a solid platform, Pakistan will be well placed to control the tempo. Australia, however, remain a major threat if David Warner or Glenn Maxwell unleash their hitting. While Australia possess the firepower to challenge anywhere, Pakistan’s familiarity with Lahore conditions gives them a slight edge in what should be a thrilling T20 encounter.
Dream 11 Fantasy Picks
- Babar Azam – Reliable top-order runs in home conditions.
- Glenn Maxwell – High-impact all-round fantasy potential.
- Shaheen Shah Afridi – Early wickets can swing fantasy contests quickly.
