With the 2023 World Cup on the horizon, the cricket world is abuzz with anticipation. However, before the grand spectacle, fans are in for a treat as the cricket giants of Asia, Afghanistan and Pakistan, gear up for an electrifying series. This historical encounter will take center stage at the serene Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium in Hambantota.
Marking their first bilateral series, the match promises more than just cricket; it’s the beginning of a new regional rivalry. Hosted by Sri Lanka, the teams will battle it out in Hambantota before heading to Colombo for the grand finale.
Under the watchful eye of the iconic Inzamam-ul-Haq, Pakistan’s squad has been meticulously selected. Captain Babar Azam, fresh from his stint in the Lanka Premier League, will be at the helm, ably supported by his deputy, Shadab Khan.
There are notable changes in the lineup: the exit of Shan Masood and Ihsanullah, and the inclusion of the formidable Tayyab Tahir, whose recent performance in the ACC Emerging Asia Cup has been nothing short of exceptional.
On the Afghan side, Noor Ahmad, the left-arm wrist spinner, is back in the mix. And here’s a treat for fans – the Afghan team has made entry free for this home series!
Image Source – OutlookIndia
Reflecting on their recent outings, Pakistan’s primary face-offs in the 50-over format have been against New Zealand, while Afghanistan’s tour of Bangladesh and subsequent matches against Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka have kept them on their toes.
Historical Bytes:
Afghanistan and Pakistan have clashed in ODIs on only four prior occasions, with Pakistan maintaining a clean 4-0 slate. Their last encounter? The 2019 Cricket World Cup at Headingley.
Spotlight Players:
- Fazalhaq Farooqi (Afghanistan): An emerging pace spearhead, Farooqi’s recent performances make him a player to watch.
- Babar Azam (Pakistan): The charismatic captain is in sublime form, as evidenced by his recent century in the Lanka Premier League.
Fantasy Line-up Prediction: Afghanistan: Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rahmat Shah, and others. Pakistan: A solid lineup featuring the likes of Fakhar Zaman, Abdullah Shafique, and Babar Azam.
Image Source – IndiaTvNews
Match Prediction: While Pakistan boasts of a well-rounded team and recent exposure to Lankan conditions, which will undoubtedly work in their favor, Afghanistan has been the dark horse on numerous occasions. Past stats favor Pakistan, but in cricket, it’s always the day’s performance that counts. Expect a closely contested encounter, but with their recent form and experience, Pakistan might have the edge in this series. Nevertheless, with the unpredictable nature of the game, Afghanistan could spring a surprise. So, cricket aficionados, buckle up for a thrilling series ahead!
