Pakistan cricket team is gearing up for a crucial match against South Africa in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, which is set to take place in Chennai on Friday.

After overcoming a knee injury, Fakhar Zaman is now fit and available for selection. Although he took part in practice sessions on both Wednesday and Thursday, there were signs of rustiness in his batting. Despite the team management’s inclination to include him in the playing XI in place of fellow opener Imam-ul-Haq, Fakhar’s recent lack of form with the bat could be a potential hurdle.

All eyes will be on the skipper Babar Azam, who is gearing up to show his skills and make a significant contribution in this crucial match.

Mohammad Rizwan, the team’s wicketkeeper-batsman, is expected to hold the fort at number four, showing his composed approach to the game

Saud Shakeel and Iftikhar Ahmed will be eager to make a noteworthy impact in their respective areas of expertise and contribute to the team’s victory.

Despite missing the Afghanistan match due to illness, Mohammad Nawaz has now recovered. However, it is likely that he will remain on the sidelines, with Shadab Khan and Usama Mir continuing to handle the spin department.

Unfortunately, Hassan Ali is currently unwell and has been ruled out of the South Africa game. The PCB medical panel has advised the pacer rest and as a result, Mohammad Wasim Jnr is expected to step in and replace him in the playing XI.

Pakistan’s expected playing XI:

Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman/Imam ul Haq, Babar Azam (C), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Haris Rauf

Pakistan squad for World Cup:

Babar Azam (C), Shadab Khan (VC), Fakhar Zaman, Imam ul Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Agha Salman, Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Hassan Ali, Mohammad Wasim Jr