The two-wicket loss in the first ODI of the three-match series, if anything, displayed the true potential Pakistan held to come toe-to-toe against the indomitable powerhouses of the game. The remainder of the series truly transformed that spark into reality as they proved that they are not a side that could be taken lightly. Both the games had them bowl out the hosts for paltry scores, before hunting them down losing only just one and two wickets in the second and third ODI, respectively.
Pakistan’s interim white-ball head coach, Jason Gillespie, articulated that there were some deficiencies that were brought to light by Pakistan’s relentless bowling unit.
“What we saw in this series is our bowling exposed some flaws in the Australian batting. I’m sure the Australians will look to right some wrongs and improve some things. That’s what good players and good teams do. You learn, adjust, and adapt and be ready for the next challenge,” stated Gillespie, as quoted by The Sydney Morning Herald.
Gillespie also admitted that he expected the Australian think tank to sideline a few of their marquee players keeping the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy in mind.
“We anticipated that, and that’s the nature of modern cricket, and it’s up to selectors and coaches to manage their players as best they can. Australia chose to do that. It was pretty obvious that this three-match one-day series wasn’t the highest of priorities for Australia,” noted Gillespie.
It’s unrealistic to have players playing every single international: Gillespie
Gillespie, however, did not hold the Australian management responsible for the call they took in relation to their high-profile players, and instead understood their plight.
“It’s critical to look after and manage your players as effectively as you possibly can because you want them fit and firing for as much international cricket as possible, and sometimes you have to manage some players. It’s unrealistic to have players playing every single international that’s scheduled, I just don’t think that’s sustainable, and you burn players out very quickly,” he observed.
Notably, 23 of the 27 Australian wickets which fell in the series were courtesy of Pakistan’s potent pace trio who wreaked absolute havoc amongst the home team’s batters.