Date: August 18, 2023
Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka
Match: Pakistan vs. Sri Lanka
Weather: Rainy Day
| Out | In |
|---|---|
| Fakhar Zaman | Mohammad Haris |
| Naseem Shah | Zaman Khan (Debut) |
| Haris Rauf | Zaman Khan |
| Faheem Ashraf | Mohammad Nawaz |
| Salman Ali Agha | Mohammad Wasim Jr. |
Colombo, Sri Lanka - Rain has delayed a crucial Asia Cup match in Colombo between Pakistan and Sri Lanka today. The green shirts have made five significant changes to their playing XI squad for this pivotal encounter, with injuries sidelining pacers Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf.
Pakistan faced a demoralizing defeat at the hands of India in their second Super Four match of the Asia Cup on Monday. The team was outplayed by Rohit Sharma's squad, suffering a staggering 228-run loss. Pakistan's formidable pace attack was unable to contain the Indian batters, who piled on an impressive 356/2 at the end of their innings. In response, Pakistan was bowled out for just 128 runs.
In addition to the loss, Pakistan was dealt another blow as pacers Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf suffered injuries during the match. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) swiftly called up reserve bowlers Zaman Khan and Shahnawaz Dahani, citing it as a precautionary measure to ensure the team's readiness for the upcoming 50-over World Cup.
Zaman Khan, the right-arm fast bowler, is set to make his ODI debut against Sri Lanka in today's match. The PCB stated, "Zaman joined the team in the morning today and will train with the squad at the RPICS in the evening."
Haris Rauf, who felt discomfort in his right flank during the India match, is reported to be recovering well.
Pakistan has also made another change to their playing XI squad against Sri Lanka, opting to drop out-of-form opening batter Fakhar Zaman in favor of the aggressive Mohammad Haris.
"Mohammad Haris, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Wasim Jr., and Zaman Khan will be in the team," stated the PCB. "Fakhar Zaman, Salman Ali Agha, Faheem Ashraf, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf will rest."
Pakistan's Bowling Coach, Morne Morkel, reflected on the team's challenging loss to India, characterizing it as a valuable learning experience ahead of the 50-over World Cup. Morkel particularly praised Shaheen Afridi as "world-class" and emphasized the importance of facing tough situations leading up to the World Cup, expressing confidence in Pakistan's ability to bounce back stronger.
Despite the rain delay, cricket enthusiasts around the world are eager to witness how Pakistan, with their reshuffled lineup, will fare against Sri Lanka in this must-win Asia Cup match.
(Note: The match is delayed due to rain, and the new start time is yet to be confirmed.)
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