'Shaheen, Babar hold key on white-ball tour'

Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has lauded Pakistan's top cricket stars, Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi, while recognizing the unpredictable nature of the Pakistan team ahead of the upcoming white-ball series in November.

Speaking at the Australian Summer Festival in Melbourne, Maxwell emphasized the need for Australia to be fully prepared to face a dangerous and unpredictable Pakistan side.

He acknowledged Pakistan's ability to surprise opponents with their unpredictability, saying, "When you play against a team like Pakistan, their unpredictability makes them so tough to compete with."

"We've had challenges against Pakistan in the past. They can be dangerous at different times because you never know what to expect from them," he added.

In his comments, Maxwell singled out Pakistan captain Babar Azam and fast bowler Shaheen Afridi as key players who can impact the series. He described Babar Azam as "an absolute superstar" and praised Afridi, calling him "a wizard with the new ball up front."

Maxwell stressed that Australia is taking the series seriously, preparing diligently to ensure they perform at their best.

"We definitely have to keep an eye on Babar Azam; he's an absolute superstar," he said. "Shaheen Afridi is a wizard with the new ball up front. Pakistan has world-class players, and we're looking forward to the challenge," he added.

ODI Series:

• November 4: 1st ODI at MCG, Melbourne

• November 8: 2nd ODI at Adelaide Oval, Adelaide

• November 10: 3rd ODI at Perth Stadium, Perth

T20I Series:

• November 14: 1st T20I at The Gabba, Brisbane

• November 16: 2nd T20I at SCG, Sydney

• November 18: 3rd T20I at Bellerive Oval, Hobart