Lahore will host the opening match of the T20 series between Pakistan and Australia starting Thursday. Three Australian players—Mahli Beardman, Jack Edwards, and Matthew Renshaw—are set to make their T20 international debuts in this first game at Gaddafi Stadium.
This series holds significant importance as a preparatory event ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup, which begins on 7 February. Australia has made some changes to their squad for this series due to injuries and rest.
Regular captain Mitchell Marsh has been rested following Perth Scorchers’ victory in the Big Bash League (BBL) final on Sunday. In his absence, Travis Head will lead the Australian team.
None of the three debutants are part of Australia’s T20 World Cup squad. However, key players such as Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Tim David, and Nathan Ellis are sidelined with injuries, while Glenn Maxwell has been rested. These circumstances have opened opportunities for the new players.
Matthew Renshaw, who will bat at number four, has shown excellent form this season playing for Brisbane Heat. Notably, he scored his maiden BBL century during a record chase of 258 runs against Perth Scorchers. The left-handed batsman has previously played 14 Test matches and 3 ODIs, and with this debut, he will join the ranks of players who have represented Australia across all three formats.
All-rounder Jack Edwards impressed in BBL 15 by taking 19 wickets, making him the second highest wicket-taker in the tournament.
Twenty-year-old Mahli Beardman earned his place after playing a key role in Australia’s Under-19 World Cup victory in 2024. The right-arm fast bowler has consistently delivered pace above 140 km/h and has taken 13 wickets in 11 matches for Perth Scorchers this season.
The playing eleven for Australia in the first T20 match is: Travis Head (captain), Matthew Short, Cameron Green, Matthew Renshaw, Cooper Connolly, Mitchell Owen, Josh Philippe, Jack Edwards, Xavier Bartlett, Adam Zampa, and Mahli Beardman.
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