Pakistan likely to make two changes for match against South Africa

Pakistan is likely to make two changes to their playing XI for match against South Africa on Sunday, June 23, during the ongoing 2019 International Cricket Council (ICC) World Cup in England and Wales.

According to details, the Sarfaraz Ahmed-led unit will prefer middle-order batsman Haris Sohail and young pacer Mohammad Hasnain over veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik and right-arm quick Hasan Ali.

Malik has been going through a lean patch in past few ODIs and has only notched up eight runs in his previous three innings — which includes two consecutive ducks in last couple of matches.

On the other hand, Hasan has been unable to spur magic with the ball and has only claimed two wickets at an economy rate of 7.5 in his last three outings during the 2019 World Cup.

Malik’s replacement, Sohail, will be brought in to provide more stability to the batting department, while his slow left-arm spin can also add another dimension to Pakistan’s bowling.

Meanwhile Hasnain, who is yet to play a match during the ongoing World Cup, is likely to get the nod of the team management as well. The right-arm pacer was touted as Pakistan’s ‘surprise package’ before the beginning of the mega event by Chief Selector Inzamamul Haq because of his raw pace.

Pakistan desperately need a win to stay alive in the mega event, as they only have three points from five games during the 2019 World Cup so far. The match will be played at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground in London.