Pakistan vs Australia 3rd T20I Live Cricket Score: Australia Eye Consolation Victory at Gaddafi Stadium
PAK vs AUS Live Cricket Score Updates: The third and final T20I between Pakistan and Australia is underway at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium, with the visitors seeking a consolation win after losing the series. Pakistan has already clinched the three-match series with commanding performances, leaving only pride at stake for Australia in today's encounter.
Series Context and Recent Dominance
Pakistan secured the T20I series against Australia with a massive 90-run victory on Saturday, marking a significant achievement ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup. This series has been particularly buoyant for the hosts, who ended an eight-year drought against Australia in T20Is with a 22-run win in the first match on Thursday. The back-to-back victories have showcased Pakistan's strength and form, contrasting sharply with Australia's struggles.
Despite Australia fielding a depleted squad, resting key players like Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Tim David, Glenn Maxwell, and Nathan Ellis, the performance has raised eyebrows. Former Pakistan cricketers, including Moin Khan, have openly questioned the seriousness of the Australian team, suggesting they appear to be merely fulfilling a formality rather than competing earnestly.
Criticism from Former Players
After Australia's defeat in the second T20I, criticism intensified. Moin Khan, a former Test captain, expressed concerns about the trend of visiting teams bringing weakened squads to Pakistan. He remarked, "In recent times we have seen New Zealand, South Africa, Australia come with weakened teams to Pakistan. It is as if they are fulfilling their formality to play a series."
This sentiment echoes among other experts who note that even available players like skipper Mitchell Marsh, Marcus Stoinis, Josh Inglis, Scott Abbott, and Ben Dwarshuis were absent in the first match, further fueling doubts about Australia's commitment. The inclusion of three debutants in the initial game has only added to the perception of a lackluster approach from the visitors.
Match Dynamics and What to Expect
With the series already decided, Australia will be looking to salvage some pride and avoid a whitewash. Key players who have featured, such as Mahli Beardman, have shown moments of brilliance, but consistency has been lacking. Pakistan, on the other hand, aims to maintain momentum and build confidence with a clean sweep, leveraging their recent dominant form.
As live updates continue, fans can expect a spirited contest, with Australia motivated to prove their critics wrong and Pakistan eager to cap off a successful series. The outcome of this match could have psychological implications for both teams as they prepare for future tournaments.
Stay tuned for real-time cricket score updates and in-depth coverage of this exciting clash between Pakistan and Australia.
