Shaheen Afridi says well prepared for Australia ODIs, Inglis expects tough contest

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan fast bowler and captain Shaheen Shah Afridi says his side is well prepared for the upcoming ODI series against Australia, adding that training camp sessions have been intense and the squad is fully focused on winning.

“Australia are among the strongest teams in the world and contests against them are always tough,” Shaheen said while speaking to the media ahead of the series.

He said players had worked hard in the training camp and were determined to deliver results.

“We have prepared well for Australia,” he said, adding that every player in the squad was important.

Shaheen praised senior batter Babar Azam, saying he had performed well in the Pakistan Super League and was expected to continue his form.

“We are hopeful Babar will perform well,” he said.

He added that selectors were trying to give opportunities to young players, calling it important for the future of Pakistan cricket. Shaheen said all bowlers were working on increasing their pace, while players named by the head coach were also working on areas of improvement.

On the other hand, Australia captain Josh Inglis said his side had a strong squad and expected a competitive series.

“We have a lot of talent in the squad,” Inglis said. “Pakistan are a very good team. The training sessions have been good and we hope the players put up a strong performance.”

The three-match ODI series between Pakistan and Australia begins on Saturday, with the opening day-night match scheduled in Rawalpindi. The game will start at 4:30pm local time.

The remaining two matches will be played in Lahore on June 2 and June 4.

Pakistan have recalled several senior players, including Babar Azam, while also including a number of young players in the squad.

Australia will be without captain Mitchell Marsh, who has been ruled out due to injury. Josh Inglis will lead the side in his absence.