Drop-in pitch installed at Perth ahead of Australia vs Pakistan series

Perth Stadium is all set for an exciting cricket season with the installation of a state-of-the-art drop-in pitch, specifically prepared for the upcoming white-ball series between Australia and Pakistan. This installation is a key part of the preparations for the series, which kicks off on November 4 with the first ODI at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The third ODI is scheduled at Perth on November 10​.

The drop-in pitch was transported using a unique 30-meter-long, 40-tonne cricket wicket transporter, the only one of its kind in Western Australia, ensuring that the pitch is in top condition for play​. The series will also mark the beginning of the season at Perth Stadium, which will host a Test match against India later in the month​.

Cricket Australia has announced a 14-member squad for the ODI series, with notable omissions including Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh, who are on paternity leave. Their places will be filled by Jake Fraser-McGurk and Matthew Short​. This setup promises a competitive environment, especially with the fast-paced nature of the pitch that typically favors bowlers​

Australia ODI squad vs Pakistan

Pat Cummins (C), Sean Abbott, Cooper Connolly, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa.