Vaibhav Tripathi
Ahead of their opening match in the Asia Cup, against Nepal at Multan Cricket Stadium on Wednesday (August 30), Pakistan have declared their playing XI.
In the midst of selection deliberations, Pakistan had to choose between Mohammad Nawaz and Usama Mir for their second spinner’s role. Ultimately, they opted for left-arm spinner Nawaz, who is handy with the bat lower down the order.
Faheem Ashraf’s name was also discussed, but the team management placed their trust in the dynamic trio of Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf for spearheading the fast bowling unit.
Entering the Asia Cup with high spirits, Pakistan recently became the No 1 team in ICC ODI rankings, following a convincing 3-0 sweep over Afghanistan in Sri Lanka. This is the second time they are at the top since April.
Pakistan’s XI against Nepal
Fakhar Zaman, Imam ul Haq, Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Agha Salman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf.