The high-voltage battle between India and Pakistan will be played today, on September 14, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Here are the top three battles to look out for –
Shubman Gill vs Shaheen Shah Afridi
Shaheen Shah Afridi has previously troubled Indian openers on several occasions. The newly appointed Indian vice-captain, Shubman Gill, will have a big responsibility on his shoulders to give India a strong start. He looked in good touch in the previous match against the UAE, where he scored 20 off just nine balls at a strike rate of 222.22. Shaheen can bring the ball back sharply into right-handers, which might create problems for Gill in the early stages of his innings.
Hardik Pandya vs Mohammad Nawaz
This will be a big battle in the middle overs because India will look to Hardik Pandya to clear the ropes in the later stages of the innings, while Mohammad Nawaz will try to restrict him from hitting big. Pandya has a disappointing record against left-arm orthodox bowlers in recent years. His strike rate against this type of bowling was 95.8 in 10 innings in 2022, and it has dropped further to 81.4 in four innings in the last year.
Saim Ayub vs Jasprit Bumrah
Saim Ayub is known as an attacking opener, but his job will not be easy when he faces India’s leader of the bowling attack, Jasprit Bumrah. India will expect early breakthroughs from their speedster, and how Pakistan handles Bumrah throughout the game will be a big factor in the match.
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