The World Cup 2023 heats up as Pakistan squares off against Sri Lanka in Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.
Pakistan started their World Cup journey on a positive note, beating the Netherlands by 81 runs. Although their top batsmen couldn’t make a significant mark, their middle order showed resilience and set a total of 286 runs. Pakistan’s team will aim to continue their good run and improve from their last performance.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka, after facing a big loss to South Africa, will be eager to turn things around. They’ll need to reconsider their bowling strategies after South Africa put up a huge score against them. Their batsmen did show promise, with standout performances from a few.
Weather Update for Hyderabad: Cricket fans can expect pleasant weather. Daytime will be clear, but there might be some clouds as the evening progresses. The temperature will hover between 23 to 33 degrees, with minimal chances of rain, setting the stage for a full game.
Recapping Their Recent Clash: The two teams faced off in the Asia Cup 2023, where Sri Lanka narrowly defeated Pakistan. So, Pakistan will be eager for a rematch and to earn those crucial points in the World Cup.
Peek Into Both Teams: Pakistan: Under Babar Azam’s leadership, Pakistan had a decent start in the World Cup. Though the top batsmen struggled in the recent match, players like Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan showed their worth. However, the team would want Babar Azam to regain his form.
Sri Lanka: After their big loss to South Africa, Sri Lanka’s morale might be low, but their batsmen like Kusal Mendis and Dasun Shanaka did give some strong performances. They’ll need to step up their bowling game to challenge teams like Pakistan.
Match Info:
- Date: October 10, 2023
- Time: 2:00 PM IST
- Venue: Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad
- Broadcasting: Star Sports Network & Disney+HotStar
Pitch Report for Hyderabad: The Hyderabad pitch will offer a balanced game for both batsmen and bowlers. Bowlers, especially spinners, might get some turn as the match progresses. Given the warm conditions during the day, the team winning the toss might choose to bat first.
Predicted Playing XI:
Pakistan will probably stick with their previous team lineup. Sri Lanka might make a change if Maheesh Theekshana is fit.
Pakistan XI: Imam-ul-Haq, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam (C), Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Iftikhar Ahmed, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Nawaz, Shadab Khan, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf.
Sri Lanka XI: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis (WK), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dasun Shanaka (C), Dunith Wellalage, Kasun Rajitha, Dilshan Madushanka, Matheesha Pathirana or Maheesh Theekshana (depending on fitness).
Who Might Win?
Given the current form and lineup, Pakistan seems to have the upper hand and could likely win the contest.
