Australia’s decision to rest its Test players for the third ODI against Pakistan in Perth drew sharp criticism, especially from former captain Michael Clarke. With the series tied at 1-1, Australian team management chose to sit out Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Steve Smith, and Marnus Labuschagne for the decider. This lineup change left Australia vulnerable, and they ultimately fell to an eight-wicket loss, conceding the series 2-1.
Clarke, who expected the full-strength squad to play in the crucial final ODI, was taken aback by the decision, especially since the first Test against India was still 11 days away. He expressed his frustration after the game, suggesting that the team’s management didn’t prioritize winning the series.
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“With 11 days before the first Test, I don’t see why the Test players couldn’t play in this match,” Michael Clarke said on Big Sports Basket. “If Australia had already secured the series, it would make sense to rest them, but with the series on the line, it feels like we don’t care about the outcome.”
Michael Clarke also highlighted how decisions like these might alienate fans. “If the team doesn’t care, how can they expect fans to? One-day cricket is already struggling with attendance and interest,” the 43-year-old added, suggesting that consistent absences of star players could further diminish enthusiasm for the format.
In the final ODI, Australia’s batting lineup faltered, managing only 140 runs. Sean Abbott led with a modest 30, as Pakistan’s Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah each claimed three wickets. Pakistan chased the target comfortably, winning with more than 23 overs to spare.
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Looking ahead, Australia will now shift focus to a three-match T20I series against Pakistan, starting on November 14, with games scheduled at the Gabba, Sydney, and Hobart. Afterward, Australia will face India in a highly anticipated five-match Test series beginning on November 22.
