Pakistan is all set to take on arch-rivals India in their third group stage match of the ICC Men's World Cup 2023. The most awaited clash is scheduled to take place this Saturday in Ahmedabad.
Fresh from a record-breaking run-chase against Sri Lanka, Pakistan's confidence is soaring as they prepare to face the Indian side. In their last match, the Men in Green chased down an imposing target of 345, marking the highest run-chase in ODI World Cup history.
Abdullah Shafique's stellar performance against Sri Lanka, having replaced Fakhar Zaman, where he notched up a century scoring 113 runs off just 103 balls, has certainly strengthened Pakistan's batting lineup.
Imam-ul-Haq, however, has been struggling to find his form, managing only 12 runs off 12 balls in the previous game before being dismissed by a well-executed short ball. However, Pakistan are unlikely to change their opening combination, thus handing another lifeline to Imam.
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 will look continue his rich vein of batting form and Iftikhar Ahmed will be keen on making a notable impact with both bat and ball against the Indian team.
Mohammad Nawaz and Shadab Khan will be vital cogs in the wheel, contributing with both bat and ball.
The team's pace attack will be spearheaded by Haris Rauf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Hassan Ali, aiming to dismantle the Indian batting order and create crucial breakthroughs.
Pakistan's expected playing XI:
Abdullah Shafique, Imam ul Haq, Babar Azam (C), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Hassan Ali, Haris Rauf
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