In the second ICC World Cup 2019, pale-looking, Pakistan is set to set to lock horns with Windies. Both the teams will feature in the second game of the ODI showpiece at the Trent Bridge in Nottingham on Friday (May 31st).
Meanwhile, Pakistan would be keen to shrug the barren run following their ten straight losses. Recently, they’ve lost to England 4-0 in the five-match ODI series.
Earlier, the Men in Green had received a severe beating from Australia in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) when they lost the series 5-0. Well, despite struggling to return to the winning ways, Pakistan’s unpredictability is something which has been deemed as dangerous.
Meanwhile, the West Indies team had recorded 400-plus in the recently-held warm-up game against New Zealand.
Also Read : ICC World Cup 2019: Match 2, West Indies vs Pakistan- Match Prediction
Plus, the prominent players in the line-up dishing out the challenge will further make an impending game quite fascinating.
Here’s Pakistan’s predicted playing XI against Windies at the 2019 World Cup:
Fakhar Zaman:
Fakhar Zaman has been in an outstanding touch ever since he made an entry during the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy.
However, with the time he has also learnt the trait which subsequently saw him spending quality time at the crease.
The occasional failures have also allowed him to ponder before walking out in the middle.
Imam-ul-Haq:
Imam-ul-Haq has improved his strike-rate, which is a good sign for Pakistan, particularly in the ongoing World Cup. Known for playing spin well, Imam could further change gears irrespective of the conditions.
However, with not-so-much appearance, Imam would also be facing the litmus test at the top.
Babar Azam:
The prolific run-getter Babar Azam has been a cornerstone for Pakistan in the contemporary cricket.
The right-handed batsman Azam, who has all the shots in his book, further expressed himself at the top-flight cricket. He will be vital for Pakistan’s chances, particularly in the middle overs.
Shoaib Malik:
The former skipper Shoaib Malik brings a wealth of experience to the table. He himself might have missed the previous World Cup, but the way he has play spin attack has in itself been a remarkable story.
Apart from bringing stability in the middle-order, Malik will be handy as an off-spin option.
Sarfraz Ahmed:
Skipper Sarfraz Ahmed is known for his aggressive style of play. Having the intent to go after the bowlers early on sets him apart from a lot.
Also, Sarfraz has the knack of playing an anchor’s role which would benefit Pakistan, particularly in the day-long format.
Mohammad Hafeez:
The senior campaigner Mohammad Hafeez is known for his all-round ability. Given to his bowling, he would be a nightmare for the left-handed batsmen.
Hafeez, who could bat anywhere has to prove his credentials. In the recent past, he has played crucial knocks to see Pakistan over the line.
Imad Wasim:
The Wales-born cricketer Imad Wasim has an excellent opportunity to make things count. Touted as Pakistan’s next skipper, the all-rounder has the potential to win games for his country.
However, his English experience will further help the Men in Green big time.
Shadab Khan:
Shadab Khan will be an exciting prospect to watch out for. With leg-spinners being touted as crucial in England this time around, Shadab is undoubtedly the one to look at.
Shaheen Afridi:
The lanky youngster Shaheen Shah Afridi might have had faced the heat during the England series, but he is capable of generating the bounce and trouble the batsmen on his day.
Shaheen will be a bowler who could further decide Pakistan’s early road in the twelfth edition of the World Cup.
Hasan Ali:
The skiddy customer is known for stemming the run flow. Hasan Ali will be a key who is himself a wicket-taking option for a leader. And in the absence of Mohammad Amir, his role becomes altogether different.
Wahab Riaz:
Wahab Riaz‘s inclusion might have hurt the sentiment of many, but his aggression and bowling with a lot of steam could inspire Pakistan to go deep into the tournament.
Riaz has a lot to prove after returning from a hiatus of over two years.
