Two Changes Expected In Pakistan Playing XI For Third ODI Against NZ
At the National Bank Cricket Arena in Karachi, Pakistan will face off against New Zealand in the third One Day International (ODI) of the ongoing five-match series.
As fans eagerly await the start of the match, Pakistan will make changes to its lineup, as they currently lead the ODI series 2-0.
Sources have reported that Iftikhar Ahmed, originally brought in as a replacement for middle-order batter Haris Sohail, will most likely replace Abdullah Shafique in the Karachi match.
Also, Shaheen Shah Afridi is likely to replace Ihsanullah, who injured his bowling arm during the training session on Monday and is currently experiencing pain.
In an effort to win the series, skipper Babar Azam will potentially lead a modified squad.
ODI series
If the Green Shirts win the ongoing ODI series, it will be their first victory against the Black Caps since 2011.
For both teams, this series serves as a warm-up for the ICC World Cup 2023 in India.
The last two ODIs of the series will be played at the same venue on May 5 and 7.
During a press conference in Rawalpindi, Babar emphasized the importance of the ODI series against the Kiwis in preparation for the World Cup and Asia Cup.
“These five matches are crucial for our World Cup preparation,” said the captain.
He added that the team has eight ODIs, including the Asia Cup, to prepare for the mega-tournament, which is why it is crucial to utilize these games.
Pakistan’s Likely XI
Babar Azam (c), Imam-ul-Haq, Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Iftikhar Ahmed, Agha Salman, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi.
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