Australian captain Mitchell Marsh has been surprised by the cold weather in Pakistan as his team arrived in Lahore for a three-match T20I series.
Speaking at the trophy unveiling ceremony on Wednesday, Marsh admitted he did not expect such cold and had not packed enough warm clothing.
“I did not expect it to be this cold in Pakistan, so I did not bring many warm clothes,” Marsh said during the pre-series press conference.
Australia landed in Lahore amid an unusual cold spell across the country. While locals have reacted with mixed feelings, the visiting players arriving from summer conditions in Australia were surprised by Pakistan’s cold weather.
Marsh said he was happy to be in Pakistan and described the series as an important part of Australia’s preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup. “We are really excited to be here. This series is very important for our World Cup preparation, and the whole squad is looking forward to it,” he said.
He added that most members of Australia’s World Cup squad are available and said the team aims to use the series to fine-tune its plans. “Playing in these conditions will not be easy. We will try to attack the spinners based on the conditions, and we will decide the playing eleven tomorrow,” Marsh said.
Praising Pakistan’s pace attack, Marsh said, “Pakistan has a great history of fast bowling. Shaheen Shah Afridi is one of the best bowlers in the world right now, and he will be a big challenge for us in the series and the World Cup.”
Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha also addressed the media and urged focus on the team rather than individual players. “I hope that when I come to a press conference, I am not asked questions about Babar. Leave him alone and let him bat,” Salman said.
He added that Pakistan have several players capable of performing. “There are other players in the team. We can talk about them as well. I am not concerned about the Big Bash League. Babar is batting well,” he said.
Salman termed the series crucial for both teams. “This series gives us a clear direction and a great opportunity to prove ourselves against a strong side like Australia,” he said. He added that every player understands his role and stressed the importance of playing according to match situations.
Salman Ali Agha described Australia as a team with a consistent mindset and said Pakistan have a strong chance to win the series. He also named Usman Tariq as a potential trump card for Pakistan.
Reports suggest Travis Head may lead Australia in the first match as Mitchell Marsh and wicketkeeper Josh Inglis are likely to be rested due to workload management after playing the Big Bash League final on Sunday.
The T20I series will be played on January 29, January 31, and February 1 at Gaddafi Stadium, with all matches starting at 4 pm Pakistan Standard Time.