This series starts against the backdrop of a controversial retirement match for David Warner. Most of the pre-series chat has centred around Warner’s retirement, his legacy in the game, and whether or not he deserves a grand farewell.
Pakistan might hope that serves as some distraction given their abject form in Australia, and they will play their first Test at the relatively new Optus Stadium. It doesn’t quite have the pace and bounce of the old WACA ground, but still should be a real Test for the visiting batters. Australia have won all three Tests they have played at this venue.
To Win Match
Australia 1/4 | Draw 13/2 | Pakistan 15/2
Australia haven’t settled the Warner matter by any means, but he looks likely to play all three Tests nonetheless to finish off his career in the format.
Travis Head comes into the match as the form batter in the side, but he expects to face a barrage of short stuff from the Pakistan quicks.
Australia will have plenty of firepower to go back at Pakistan with the ball in hand, with Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Pat Cummins to be supported by either Scott Boland or Lance Morris.
Nathan Lyon might not get a look in on this particular ground, but that could depend on a pitch inspection.
Pakistan have not been happy with the pace of the warm-up wickets and don’t believe that they will come close to what they will receive in the Tests.
Newly appointed Test skipper Shan Masood has a thankless task first up as he leads Pakistan for the first time, he struck a double ton in the warm-up, though and is in good nick.
Shaheen Afridi could be the critical bowler, especially when he has the new ball in his hands.
Babar Azam isn’t the skipper anymore, but he will still need to perform with bat in hand.
Verdict: Australia 1/4
Australia should be dominant out in Perth.
