Pakistan cricket team is gearing up for a crucial match against Afghanistan in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, which is set to take place in Chennai on Monday.
Pakistan has faced two challenging losses in their recent matches, one against India and another against Australia. Therefore, securing a victory against Afghanistan is imperative to rejuvenate their prospects in the tournament.
Unfortunately, Fakhar Zaman is sidelined due to a knee injury, which means Pakistan is likely to stick with their opening combination of Abdullah Shafique and Imam ul Haq. Both Imam and Abdullah will aim to continue their excellent batting form as openers.
All eyes will be on the skipper Babar Azam, who is gearing up to show his skills and make a significant contribution in this crucial match.
Mohammad Rizwan, the team’s wicketkeeper-batsman, is expected to hold the fort at number four, showing his composed approach to the game
Saud Shakeel and Iftikhar Ahmed will be eager to make a noteworthy impact in their respective areas of expertise and contribute to the team’s victory.
Usama Mir proved costly in his World Cup debut match against Australia as he gave away 82 runs in nine overs and could only pick one wicket. However, he is likely to get another opportunity to prove his mettle. Pakistan could bring back Shadab Khan in place of Mohammad Nawaz, who has been wicketless in last two games against Australia and India.
The pace attack for Pakistan will consist of Haris Rauf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Hassan Ali.
Pakistan’s expected playing XI:
Abdullah Shafique, Imam-Ul-Haq, Babar Azam (C), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz/Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Afridi
Pakistan squad for World Cup:
Babar Azam (C), Shadab Khan (VC), Fakhar Zaman, Imam ul Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Agha Salman, Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Hassan Ali, Mohammad Wasim Jr