Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan won the toss against Pakistan and chose to bat first in a do or die match. Babar Azam expressed his preference for batting first, citing the potential early swing due to moisture on the pitch. “We would also like to bat first. There might be some swing in it early on because there is some moisture in it.”
He emphasized the team’s well-rounded performance in the last match, commending their energy.
“Last match we were good in all three departments. There was some good energy,” he added.
Babar also revealed his personal aspiration for a big innings, aiming to convert it into a century. In terms of team changes, three alterations were made: Imam, Shadab, and Nawaz are out, while Fakhar, Salman, and Usama are in.
“I am also waiting for a big innings, I will try to convert into a hundred. Three changes, Imam, Shadab and Nawaz out. Fakhar, Salman and Usama in,” he concluded.
Why is Shadab Khan not playing?
Shadab Khan‘s recent performance decline has prompted his exclusion from the team. The spinner all-rounder, who previously shone in major tournaments for Pakistan, has struggled to replicate his past success. He was replaced as a concussion substitute by Usama Mir during Pakistan’s last match against South Africa at the beginning of their chase. Hence his fitness was also a majot concern. His inconsistencies with bat and ball have raised concerns, leading to the possibility of Usama Mir’s inclusion in the squad. Shadab’s omission underscores the team’s need for a more reliable and in-form contributor, especially in critical matches like those in the World Cup.
Pakistan Playing XI
Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam(c), Mohammad Rizwan(w), Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Agha Salman, Shaheen Afridi, Usama Mir, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Haris Rauf
Pakistan’s World Cup journey has been marred by controversy and disappointment, particularly after their clash with arch-rivals India. The aftermath saw selectors being axed and private test messages with the captain being leaked by PCB officials. In the midst of this turmoil, Pakistan faces a do-or-die situation in their quest for a semi-final berth. Their hopes are hanging by a thread as they confront Bangladesh in the 31st match of the 2023 World Cup. It’s a critical moment for Pakistan, as a victory is imperative to resuscitate their faint semi-final aspirations. The cricketing world watches with bated breath to see if Pakistan can overcome the internal chaos and regain their stride on the field.
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