Pakistan ODI squad preparation matches will be an integral part of the preparation as the national side is preparing to host Australia in a high-stakes three-match ODI series later this month. The Pakistan cricket family is preparing a series of white-ball games in the team, where they will test the available players in a competitive setting for the upcoming week, sources said.
The games will feature 3-4 ‘internal games’ which will feature top domestic and international white-ball performers. This in-house competition will provide selectors and coaching staff with a better understanding of form, fitness and match readiness before final team selections are made.
Head coach Mike Hesson is said to be making an active effort during this practice period. He is eager to look at all available options in detail and utilize these matches as a real test to make the ODI team. It is not just about familiar names, it’s about the rising stars who are seeking to get into the mix.
The national selection committee is reportedly considering including a couple of youngsters in the final team after the intra-squad games. This sign means that they may be moving towards a long-term approach towards team construction as well as series planning.
The ODI series against Australia national cricket team will be hosted in Pakistan with the first ODI at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on 30 May. Gaddafi Stadium will host the other two ODIs on 2 June and 4 June.
This is a systematic preparation that emphasizes on the growing focus on Pakistan for performance-based selection instead of reputation. The intra-squad format enables players to play under match-like conditions, while also providing the selectors with controlled conditions to assess form.
