Australia's tour of Pakistan will kick off with the first Test of the three-match series in Rawalpindi on March 4. This is Australia's first visit to Pakistan in 24 years, and both teams will compete for the 'Benaud-Qadir Trophy,' named after Richie Benaud of Australia and Abdul Qadir of Pakistan.
This is a perpetual trophy that will be given out at the conclusion of each men's Test series between Pakistan and Australia. The two sides will further clash in three ODIs and one T20I.
Pat Cummins' side hasn't played a Test outside of Australia since the outbreak of Covid-19, and many of the players are making their first trip to the South Asian country. Australia last visited Pakistan in 1998.
As the Australian team prepares for its first overseas match in more than two years, FOX Cricket, the country's broadcaster, took a dig at the flat-looking pitch at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium ahead of the first game.
The pitch was devoid of grass, and the broadcasters hilariously added road signs to the side of the pitch by digitally editing the original image.
Australia's leading off-spinner Nathan Lyon said the wickets looked similar to those in the United Arab Emirates and that he expected a good batting track early in the opening match before the spin and reverse swing later.
"My role is going to change across the test matches. There's going to be times where I'll be in a holding role ... where there is an opportunity for me to be more attacking I will," Lyon said as per AFP.
"All bowlers in our squad are well prepared to play whatever role it takes to perform well. It's going to be challenging but we've got the squad to cover all areas."
Lyon is hoping for a 3-0 Test series victory over the hosts despite not having played an away Test in a long time."My mindset is every game we go into, we will look to win, not draw or lose. My mindset is to win 3-0 in Pakistan," Lyon said.
