After their convincing victory against the Netherlands in the opening match of the World Cup, Pakistan is gearing up to face Sri Lanka in their second encounter at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on Tuesday. Despite their win, Pakistan faced challenges with their top-order batsmen Fakhar Zaman and Imam-Ul-haq failing to make an impact, and skipper Babar Azam getting out cheaply with just 5 runs off 18 balls. Thanks to notable performances by Rizwan and Saud Shakeel, who both scored crucial 68 runs, Pakistan managed to post a competitive total. In the bowling department, Haris Rauf and Hasan Ali contributed significantly with three and two wickets respectively. Pakistan is determined to enhance their performance and rectify their shortcomings from the previous game.
On the flip side, Sri Lanka had a rough start to the tournament, suffering a significant defeat against South Africa. Aiden Markram, Quinton de Kock, and Rassie van der Dussen’s centuries propelled South Africa to a record-breaking total of 428 runs. Sri Lanka’s chase was marred by early wickets, but Kusal Mendis and Charith Asalanka put up a fight before succumbing to South Africa’s formidable bowling attack. Sri Lanka is looking to strengthen their bowling lineup, with the possible inclusion of Maheesh Theeshana for the match against Pakistan.
Probable Lineups:
Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman, Imam ul Haq, Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Shadab Khan, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf.
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadira Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjay de Silva, Dasun Shanaka (c), Dunith Wellalage/Maheesh Theekshana, Kasun Rajitha, Mathisha Pathirana, Dilshan Madushanka.
