Australia vs Pakistan Prediction: Australia ran away with first test convincingly

Australia and Pakistan are going head to head in the 2nd Match of the Test Series at Melbourne Cricket Ground, Australia on 26 Dec 2023. Australia ran away with the first test pretty convincingly in all three departments. Can Pakistan bounce back from that crushing defeat? Who will win this game of cricket?

Australia form

Australia has announced its squad for the second Test match, and it comes as no surprise. Lance Morris's return to the BBL indicates that there will likely be no changes in the playing eleven. The only potential alteration could be Scott Boland replacing Mitchell Starc in case of a minor injury concern, although we don't believe that is the case. Australia's bowling lineup consisting of Hazelwood, Starc, Cummins, and Lyon is exceptionally strong and considered one of the best in Test history. They will undoubtedly pose a formidable challenge for the Pakistani batsmen. The pitch in Melbourne has been relatively lively in recent seasons, so hopefully, it will provide the bowlers with some assistance once again. Lyon's performance in the second innings could be crucial, and he may have a good chance of taking the most wickets in the match. The only concern is that the Pakistani batting lineup might struggle against the Australian fast bowlers. On the other hand, the Australian batsmen, including Warner, Labuschagne, Smith, Khawaja, Head, and Marsh, form a formidable top-6 that will be difficult to dislodge. Predicting the highest run-scorer among them may be unpredictable, so it would be wise to bet on all of them surpassing their individual Over/Under lines. There is no indication that Australia's dominance over Pakistan will suddenly come to an end in this match.

Australia Predicted Lineup

David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins (c), Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

Pakistan form

Pakistan's bowling attack was subpar in the initial match, despite the commendable performances from Aamer Jamal and Kurram Shahzad. Consistent pressure is necessary to consistently take wickets in Australia, but this was lacking. Pakistan's only hope lies in the availability of Abrar Ahmed for selection and a quick return to form for Shaheen Afridi. Unfortunately, with Khurram Shahzad ruled out for the second match, Hasan Ali might need to be included, posing another challenge to address.

It is a commonly repeated statement that Pakistan's bowling attack is the weakest ever to tour Australia, and this appears to be a reality. The MCG pitch can be uneventful at times, which will further impede Pakistan's struggling bowling efforts seen in Perth.

On paper, Pakistan boasts a batting lineup that should be able to put up a fight against Australia. Shaan Masood has scored runs in warm-ups, Abdullah Shafique looks impressive, and Babar Azam is known for his capabilities. However, concerns arise regarding their temperament in big matches and against Australia. It is baffling that Mohammad Rizwan continues to be left out, especially when Sarfaraz Ahmed performs well in subcontinental conditions.

Pakistan is also relying on players like Faheem Ashraf and Agha Salman, who are considered all-rounders. This is likely due to insecurity about their batting and bowling options. It is crucial for them to make bold choices and play aggressively. They may still face defeat, but after 15 consecutive losses, they can provide cricket fans with something to cheer about.

Pakistan Predicted Lineup

Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Shan Masood (c), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Agha Salman, Faheem Ashraf, Aamer Jamal, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammed Wasim

Australia vs Pakistan Expert Tips & Prediction

The team that wins the coin toss will have the opportunity to bat first. It is anticipated that there will be some rain in Melbourne during the first three days of the match, which may result in interruptions. If time is lost due to rain, a draw becomes a possibility, although the outcome will also depend on the condition of the playing surface. The curators at the MCG have made efforts to improve the surface, aiming for increased bounce and spin for the bowlers. However, there will not be excessive pace, and batters should find it easier to score runs initially. 

Our prediction is that Australia will win the match. While a draw is slightly possible and it may be wise to hedge bets after the first few days, we believe that placing an outright bet on Australia to win is the best option. It is advisable to secure pre-match bets promptly, as the odds tend to decrease rapidly afterwards. Bet on Australia for victory.