Clash of Asian Rivals: Pakistan vs. Sri Lanka in CWC23

Date and Venue: Tuesday, 10th October at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad

Overview:

After Pakistan’s convincing victory over the Netherlands and Sri Lanka’s initial loss to South Africa, both teams are set for an intense showdown. Sri Lanka faced hurdles due to the absence of Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana in their previous match, hoping for Theekshana’s recovery from a hamstring injury before taking on Pakistan.

Key Players:

Pakistan – Haris Rauf:

Rauf’s exceptional performance in the opener against the Netherlands, where he took crucial wickets, showcased his brilliance. With Naseem Shah out due to injury, Pakistan will lean on Rauf’s bowling prowess alongside Shaheen Afridi to dismantle the opposition’s batting line-up.

Sri Lanka – Kusal Mendis:

Mendis has displayed remarkable form in India, notably with a stunning 76 against South Africa, adorned with eight powerful sixes. His explosive batting makes him a prime target for Pakistan’s bowling attack.

Squads:

Pakistan: Babar Azam (c), Shadab Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Wasim.

Sri Lanka: Dasun Shanaka (c), Kusal Mendis (vc), Kusal Perera, Pathum Nissanka, Lahiru Kumara, Dimuth Karunaratne, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Kasun Rajitha, Matheesha Pathirana, Dilshan Madushanka, Dushan Hemantha.

Both sides boast talented players, and this clash promises an intriguing battle, especially considering Pakistan’s momentum from their previous win and Sri Lanka’s eagerness to recover from their initial setback.