Pakistan is gearing up to commence their T20 World Cup 2024 campaign against the United States on Thursday in Dallas, Texas.
Captain Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, who recently reignited their opening partnership with a solid 59-run stand in the fourth T20I against England, are expected to continue at the top of the order for this match.
Usman Khan, who capitalised on his opportunity in the last T20i against England with a blistering 38 off 21 balls, is anticipated to bat at number three. Fakhar Zaman is likely to retain his usual spot at number four.
Azam Khan has been battling a lack of confidence following a string of underwhelming performances with both bat and gloves. This could prompt Pakistan to bring in Saim Ayub as a replacement.
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If selected, Ayub might open alongside Rizwan, with Babar Azam, Usman Khan, and Fakhar Zaman shifting to the third, fourth, and fifth positions, respectively.
Iftikhar Ahmed is expected to take on a lower-order role, aiming to inject momentum during the final overs. With Imad Wasim sidelined due to injury, Shadab Khan will be the lone specialist spinner in the XI, supported by Iftikhar's part-time spin.
Babar Azam noted on Tuesday that the conditions appear favourable for fast bowlers, suggesting that Pakistan may field four pacers. Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Amir, and Haris Rauf are certain starters, while Abbas Afridi could be favoured over the recently expensive Naseem Shah.
Should Pakistan opt for a three-pacer attack, Abrar Ahmed is likely to be included in the playing XI.
Probable XI
Mohammad Rizwan, Babar Azam (C), Usman Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, Azam Khan (wk), Iftikhar Ahmed, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah/Abbas Afridi/Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Amir, Haris Rauf.
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