Stanlake set for history-making ODI debut

Steve Smith says he’ll relish the chance to unleash a blistering three-pronged pace attack in Friday's VB ODI series opener against Pakistan after towering youngster Billy Stanlake was named to make his international debut.

At 204cm, Stanlake will become the tallest player in Australian international cricket history when he takes to the Gabba for the day-night clash.

The 22-year-old from the Gold Coast has had his fair share of injury problems and has played only twice before in the Sheffield Shield and four times for Queensland in the Matador Cup.

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But it was his seven KFC Big Bash League appearances for the Adelaide Strikers - and the raw potential that lies beneath his towering frame - that caught the attention of captain Smith and selectors.

"It's great having those kind of players in the team," Smith said.

"He bowls with good pace and it looks like he's got pretty good control as well.

"He should get bounce, he's releasing the ball from high enough.

"I've watched him pretty closely in the Big Bash as well. He's an exciting prospect, hopefully he can start his international career on a good note."

Pakistan will be without their own giant paceman for the series after 216cm giant Mohammad Irfan flew home following the passing of his mother earlier this week.

Pakistan skipper Azhar Ali he’s watched Stanlake and fellow debutant Chris Lynn during the BBL and his side is ready for whatever the young quick throws at them.

"We've seen some footage of him and he's got some pace and obviously his height will be a factor," Ali said.

"He'll get some bounce, but we expect a lot of bounce anyway in these conditions. He hasn't played much cricket, but he's an exciting bowler so we'll have to play really well.

"And we'll look to take the opportunity when it's there to score runs against him to put some pressure back on him."

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Stanlake will join Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins in a frightening bowling line-up that has the potential to re-open Pakistan's mental scars from their comprehensive Test series defeat.

"It's nice to have three guys who can get it up around 150km/h - it's never nice to face," Smith said.

Spinner Adam Zampa has been left out of the side, meaning the trio will receive support from allrounders Glenn Maxwell, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh and James Faulkner.