Pakistan considers lineup change for Sri Lanka clash

Lahore: Pakistan is gearing up for their second group stage match in the ICC Men's World Cup 2023, set to take place against Sri Lanka on Tuesday in Hyderabad.

In their World Cup opener, the Men in Green secured an impressive 81-run victory over the Netherlands.

For Tuesday's match, Pakistan is contemplating a lineup change, considering replacing the out-of-form Fakhar Zaman with Abdullah Shafique.

This decision comes despite the left-handed opener receiving support from the team director, Mickey Arthur, who expressed confidence in Zaman's abilities, saying, "I am not worried about his form; he is a good player and is just one innings away from a big score," in an interview with AFP on Sunday.

Saud Shakeel, following his impressive score of 68 off 52 deliveries against the Netherlands, will be eager to continue his excellent form.

The batting order will feature Mohammad Rizwan, the wicketkeeper-batsman, in the number four spot, as usual. Iftikhar Ahmed, who had a challenging outing against the Netherlands, will be looking to make a significant contribution with both bat and ball in the upcoming match against Sri Lanka.

The all-round capabilities of Mohammad Nawaz and Shadab Khan will be crucial for Pakistan's performance. The final three slots in the lineup will be occupied by fast bowlers, including Haris Rauf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Hassan Ali.

Expected Playing XI for Pakistan:

Abdullah Shafique, Imam ul Haq, Babar Azam (C), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Hassan Ali and Haris Rauf

Pakistan's World Cup Squad:

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 and Mohammad Wasim Jr.