In the 35th match of the ICC World Cup 2023, Pakistan is considering a significant change in their lineup as they face New Zealand at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, India. The decision revolves around the favorable pace conditions, with the possibility of fielding four fast bowlers, potentially bringing Hasan Ali back into the playing XI at the expense of leg-spinner Usama Mir.
The ultimate choice will depend on a thorough analysis of the pitch and weather conditions, given the 50% chance of rain in Bengaluru on the upcoming Saturday.
Usama Mir returned to the playing XI against South Africa in Chennai due to Shadab Khan’s concussion during the first over of the Proteas’ innings. However, Shadab Khan’s availability for the upcoming match against New Zealand remains uncertain.
While he has resumed training after missing the match against Bangladesh, the team’s medical panel has yet to decide on his participation, and a final assessment will be made tomorrow morning.
Additionally, Imam-ul-Haq, the left-handed opener, experienced neck discomfort and was unable to participate in Friday’s training session. Nevertheless, apart from Shadab and Imam, all of Pakistan’s players are in good physical condition and ready to take part in this crucial match.
The expected lineup for Pakistan against New Zealand is as follows:
- Abdullah Shafique
- Fakhar Zaman
- Babar Azam (c)
- Mohammad Rizwan (wk)
- Saud Shakeel
- Iftikhar Ahmed
- Agha Salman
- Mohammad Wasim
- Hasan Ali
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
- Haris Rauf
It’s important to note that New Zealand is grappling with injuries to key players in this crucial World Cup match. Five of their playing XI players—Kane Williamson, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Mark Chapman, and James Neesham—are either unavailable or doubtful for the game against Pakistan.
Kane Williamson, who sustained a thumb fracture against Bangladesh in Pune, will have to undergo a fitness test to determine his participation. Matt Henry has been ruled out of the tournament due to a torn hamstring and has been replaced by Kyle Jamieson, who may feature against Pakistan. Other injured New Zealand players, including Lockie Ferguson, James Neesham, and Mark Chapman, will also need to pass fitness tests before the match against Pakistan.
