Pakistan fully prepared for Australia ODI series: Shaheen Afridi

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 29th May, 2026) Pakistan’s ODI captain Shaheen Shah Afridi has said the national team is fully prepared for the upcoming series against Australia, with all players committed to delivering strong performances.

He added that while Australia is a formidable side, the Pakistani players are ready to meet fans’ expectations on home soil and secure a series win.

Speaking at a press conference at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Friday, Shaheen said the team had completed an intensive training camp in Lahore under head coach Mike Hesson. He said physical training sessions, net practice, and practice matches were held during the camp, giving players the chance to work on their weaknesses and prepare effectively for the Australia series. He added that the entire team will take the field with the resolve to put up a strong show at home.

To a question, Shaheen said every player needs to improve in all three departments of the game — batting, bowling, and fielding. He noted that if the head coach has advised certain players on areas for improvement, it would have been communicated to them personally. As captain, he said he treats all players equally and every member of the squad is important to the team.

Shaheen also praised Babar Azam, saying he has been a key pillar of Pakistan’s ODI batting lineup for a long time and his return will further strengthen the batting.

He pointed to Babar’s good form in the Pakistan Super League and the Test series against Bangladesh, and expressed hope that he will carry that form into the Australia series.

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The captain said the selectors are following a policy of giving opportunities to young players to build the best available squad for the upcoming ICC World Cup.

He added that instilling confidence in young cricketers at the international level will make the national team stronger in the future.

On fast bowling, Shaheen said he and the other fast bowlers are working hard to improve their pace and skill, with the coaching staff also focusing on that aspect. He said the national team’s goal across all three formats is to play as a united unit, win matches, and give 100 percent on the field.

He said the players are working hard to live up to the expectations of the nation, and cricket fans can look forward to a good and competitive series against Australia.

Meanwhile, Australia Captain Josh Inglis has lauded the hospitality in Pakistan, calling the people ‘lovely’ and saying the welcome has been amazing.

Speaking about the upcoming ODI series, Inglis said the Australian squad has a lot of talented players and the team is excited to see what they can do on the field. “Pakistan is a strong side and cannot be taken lightly,” he added.

The first match of the three-match ODI series between Pakistan and Australia will be played on Saturday at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.