KEY POINTS
- Key players like Cummins and Maxwell are absent.
- Marsh noted he was unprepared for Pakistan’s cold winter.
LAHORE, Pakistan: Australian captain Mitchell Marsh confidently declared his squad prepared for their final international assignment before the T20 World Cup, as they gear up for a three-match series against Pakistan at the Gaddafi Stadium beginning January 29.
The series represents the last competitive outing for the 2021 champions ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka.
With the tournament starting on February 7, just three days after the conclusion of the Big Bash League (BBL), several Australian players face a rapid transition from domestic to international cricket.
Marsh, however, dismissed concerns over readiness, pointing to a focused preparatory camp.
“It’s a really important time in both teams’ preparations for the World Cup,” Marsh said at the pre-series press conference.
“Most of the squad has been in Dubai for the last four days training and getting together. Some of us have obviously flown in a little bit later due to Big Bash commitments, but we’re certainly ready to go.”
Key players absent
The touring side will be without several big names, including Pat Cummins, Tim David, Josh Hazlewood, and Glenn Maxwell, who are being managed ahead of the global event.
“Yes, firstly, this tour is really important for our World Cup preparations,” Marsh explained.
“We’ve got some guys that weren’t quite ready to be here, but they’re back at home training and preparing to meet us in Sri Lanka, so absolutely no stress there from our end.”
He added that the playing XI for the first match remained undecided.
“We’ll just come together tonight and pick a team. It’s obviously a big build-up for our World Cup, and we’ll make those decisions later on.”
Chilly Pakistani welcome
Beyond cricket strategy, Marsh humorously conceded to a logistical miscalculation regarding the Pakistani winter. The all-rounder admitted he was unprepared for the cold conditions in Lahore.
“Yes, I must admit I didn’t pack too many jumpers. I wasn’t aware that Pakistan got this cold, so I’ll know for next time,” Marsh said with a laugh.
He used the moment to highlight his team’s adaptability, noting, “I think one of the things about our group and most international teams now is that preparation can look different for every tour.”
The series begins on Thursday, offering both sides a critical opportunity to finalise combinations and build momentum on the eve of the T20 World Cup.
