The 2nd T20I between Australia and Pakistan is set to take place on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). After a rain-affected first T20I, which saw Australia clinching a comfortable 29-run victory, Pakistan will be eager to level the 3-match series. Let’s dive into a detailed analysis of the upcoming clash, including team previews, pitch conditions, weather updates, and match predictions.
Match Details
- Match: AUS vs PAK, 2nd T20I, Pakistan tour of Australia, 2024
- Date: Saturday, November 16, 2024
- Time: 1:30 PM Local Time / 8:00 AM IST
- Venue: Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney
- Live Streaming: Fancode
Team Previews
Australia Preview
Australia have taken a 1-0 lead in the series with a solid performance in the rain-shortened first T20I. Despite early setbacks, Glenn Maxwell played a pivotal role with a quickfire 43 off 19 balls, helping Australia set a daunting target of 93 in 7 overs.
Australia’s Strategy: Australia will likely continue their aggressive batting approach and rely on their strong bowling attack, led by Nathan Ellis and Adam Zampa, to restrict Pakistan’s batting lineup.
Key Performers:
- Glenn Maxwell: Top run-scorer in the series so far with 43 runs. His explosive batting in the middle overs can turn the game in Australia’s favor.
- Nathan Ellis: Star with the ball in the first T20I, picking up 3 crucial wickets and derailing Pakistan’s top order.
Australia Squad:
Josh Inglis (c & wk), Matthew Short, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Glenn Maxwell, Tim David, Marcus Stoinis, Aaron Hardie, Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Spencer Johnson, Sean Abbott, Josh Philippe.
Pakistan Preview
Pakistan had a tough outing in the first T20I, losing 6 wickets for just 24 runs in their chase of 94 in 7 overs. The only shining light was Abbas Afridi, who showcased his all-round skills by scoring 20 runs and taking 2 wickets.
Pakistan’s Strategy: Pakistan needs a collective batting effort to bounce back in the series. The top order, led by Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam, will be expected to anchor the innings and set a solid platform.
Key Performers:
- Abbas Afridi: Leading run-scorer and wicket-taker for Pakistan in the series, he’ll be crucial with both bat and ball.
- Shaheen Afridi: With his ability to swing the new ball, he remains a constant threat in the powerplay overs.
Pakistan Squad:
Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk), Sahibzada Farhan, Babar Azam, Usman Khan, Agha Salman, Irfan Khan, Haseebullah Khan, Abbas Afridi, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Arafat Minhas, Omair Yousuf, Jahandad Khan, Sufiyan Muqeem.
Pitch Report
The Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) is known for its balanced surface, offering something for both batters and bowlers. The pitch typically favors stroke play, especially in the first innings. Spinners could come into play in the middle overs, taking advantage of the larger boundaries.
- Average 1st Innings Score in T20Is: 160-170
- Pitch Behavior: Good for batting with some assistance for spinners.
- Score Prediction:
- If Australia Bat First: 170+
- If Pakistan Bat First: 132+
Weather Report
The weather in Sydney is expected to be partly cloudy with minimal chances of rain, ensuring a full game of cricket.
- Temperature: 23-27°C
- Humidity: 60%
- Rain Probability: 10%
Head-to-Head Stats
- Total T20Is Played: 26
- Australia Wins: 12
- Pakistan Wins: 13
- No Result: 1
The head-to-head record is almost even, with Pakistan leading by a narrow margin of one victory. However, Australia’s recent form gives them the upper hand.
Winning Chances
- Australia: 69%
- Pakistan: 31%
Australia are the favorites going into this match, given their current form and home advantage. Pakistan, however, are known for their unpredictable performances and can bounce back to level the series.
Who Will Win Today’s Match?
Predicted Winner: Australia
Australia’s depth in both batting and bowling, coupled with their strong performance in the first T20I, makes them the favorites to seal the series with another win.
Toss Prediction
The team winning the toss might opt to bat first, considering the pitch tends to slow down in the second innings, making chasing a bit challenging.
Disclaimer: The match predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We do not endorse or promote betting or gambling. Cricket is an unpredictable sport, and while our experts aim for accuracy, there are no guarantees. Enjoy the game responsibly!