Naseem Shah Returns and Abrar Ahmed Ruled Out as Pakistan Face
Sri Lanka Win Toss, Opt to Bowl First in Rawalpindi ODI
The much-anticipated Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI got underway in Rawalpindi, with Sri Lanka winning the toss and opting to bowl first. Skipper Charith Asalanka made the decision to utilize early movement and chase under lights on a surface expected to improve as the game progresses. So let’s have a look at Naseem Shah back and Abrar Ahmed ruled out.
Pakistan, who recently defeated South Africa in a thrilling ODI series, will look to carry their momentum into this contest. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, are eyeing a strong comeback ahead of the upcoming tri-nation tournament.
Naseem Shah Returns, Abrar Ahmed Ruled Out
The big news from the Pakistan camp is that Naseem Shah makes his return to the playing XI, while Abrar Ahmed misses out due to illness. Naseem’s inclusion strengthens Pakistan’s pace attack, joining Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf, as the trio look to make early inroads against Sri Lanka.
For Sri Lanka, Wanindu Hasaranga returns to the XI, bringing crucial all-round balance to the side.
Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI – Playing XIs
Pakistan Playing XI:
Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi (c), Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah
Sri Lanka Playing XI:
Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka (c), Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando
Asalanka’s Strategy: Bowl First to Use Early Conditions
Speaking at the toss, Charith Asalanka said the decision to bowl first was influenced by the conditions, as the Rawalpindi pitch may assist pacers early on and get better for batting later. Pakistan skipper Shaheen Afridi mentioned he would have preferred to bat first and put runs on the board.
Who Holds the Advantage After the Toss?
With the pitch fresh and some movement expected under cloudy conditions, Sri Lanka appear to have a slight advantage early on. However, Pakistan’s in-form batting lineup featuring Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan will look to counterattack and set a challenging total.
Under lights, batting is expected to become easier, which could make chasing a preferred option.
Match Outlook
The opening ODI promises a thrilling contest as Pakistan aim to extend their winning run, while Sri Lanka look to start strong in foreign conditions. With Naseem Shah’s return boosting the hosts and Hasaranga’s comeback strengthening the visitors, fans can expect a competitive game in Rawalpindi.
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