Pakistan Faces Sri Lanka’s Challenge in Crucial World Cup Clash

The forthcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup encounter between Pakistan and Sri Lanka at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad promises to be an intriguing battle.
Pakistan, off to a flying start with a convincing win against the Netherlands, aims to further fortify their position in the tournament. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka is determined to bounce back from their initial loss to South Africa.
Sri Lanka faced the absence of Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana in their last match and hopes Theekshana’s recovery from a hamstring injury will bolster their lineup against Pakistan.
With skipper Babar Azam looking to make amends for a rare failure in the opener against the Dutch, Sri Lanka will rely on Theekshana to control Pakistan’s formidable batting order.
Pakistan showcased their prowess, with Saud Shakeel delivering a standout performance against the Netherlands. The left-handed batsman is expected to play a pivotal role in Pakistan’s quest for success in the World Cup.
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
Key Players:
- Pakistan – Haris Rauf
- Rauf’s exceptional performance in the World Cup opener, claiming three crucial wickets, showcased his prowess. With Naseem Shah sidelined due to injury, Pakistan will rely on Rauf to complement star pacer Shaheen Afridi in dismantling opposition batting line-ups.
2. Sri Lanka – Kusal Mendis
- Mendis, exhibiting exceptional form, aims to continue his impressive run after a remarkable century against Afghanistan and a quickfire 76 against South Africa. His aggressive batting style, highlighted by eight sixes in his last innings, makes him a key threat for Pakistan in this anticipated clash.

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