Key Takeaways
- Maaz Sadaqat re-joins Pakistan's ODI squad.
- Sri Lanka win the toss and opt to bowl first.
- Pakistan are unbeaten in the tournament so far.
Opener Maaz Sadaqat has returned to Pakistan's One-day International (ODI) side for the tri-series match against Sri Lanka at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Sadaqat, who had played six ODIs earlier this year, was fast-tracked back into the squad after Saim Ayub requested to return to domestic cricket to work on his batting form.
Naseem Shah, who missed the previous fixture due to a dislocated finger, has been included in place of Razaullah. The changes aim to strengthen Pakistan's top order, with Sadaqat and Naseem bringing fresh energy to the team.
Sri Lanka, who won the toss, chose to bowl first in the match. The Green Shirts are looking to build on their recent successes, having beaten England by two wickets earlier in the series. This victory was the second-highest successful run-chase in ODI cricket history, making it a significant milestone for the team.
Pakistan, who are unbeaten in the tournament so far, are aiming to secure their place in the final on Saturday. The match offers captain Shaheen Shah Afridi's side another opportunity to assess combinations and address concerns over the top order before the title decider.
Sri Lanka, meanwhile, are keen to strengthen their position in the tournament. A victory on Tuesday would confirm their place in the final alongside Pakistan, while a Pakistan win would keep England's hopes alive ahead of their last league match against Sri Lanka on Thursday.
The playing XI for Pakistan includes Maaz Sadaqat, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saad Baig (wicket-keeper), Hasan Nawaz, Salman Ali Agha, Arafat Minhas, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi (captain), Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf. Sri Lanka's team consists of Avishka Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Mendis (captain and wicket-keeper), Pavan Rathnayake, Sahan Arachchige, Janith Liyanage, Dasun Shanaka, Dunith Wellalage, Eshan Malinga, Asitha Fernando, and Dilshan Madushanka.
Pakistan's recent performances have been impressive, with a one-wicket sensational win over England. Shadab Khan and Haris Rauf formed an 89-run tenth-wicket partnership to achieve the 242-run target with 17 balls to spare. This was the third straight win for Pakistan, putting them in the October 31 final.
Sri Lanka, on the other hand, are also in form, having achieved the second-highest score of ODI history in their previous match. This match serves as a crucial practice session for both teams, with Sri Lanka keen to secure their place in the final and Pakistan looking to maintain their unbeaten record.
