Following their 2-1 victory in the ODI series, Pakistan are gearing up to face hosts Zimbabwe in a three-match T20I series, beginning on December 1st at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. The team will look to build on their strong form and further assert their dominance over Zimbabwe, having won eight of their last ten T20I encounters.
The Queens Sports Club has not been a favourable venue for Zimbabwe, as they lost their most recent T20I match there. Pakistan, with a balanced squad and a mix of experienced and young players, aims to exploit this advantage.
Here is Pakistan’s best starting XI for the T20I series against Zimbabwe:
1. Salman Ali Agha (captain)
In the absence of Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha will lead Pakistan, bringing his experience and calm demeanour to the table. As a versatile batter and occasional off-spinner, his ability to anchor the innings while accelerating when needed will be crucial. Additionally, his tactical acumen will play a key role in guiding the relatively young squad.
2. Sahibzada Farhan
Farhan is expected to open the innings and provide a solid start. Known for his aggressive stroke play, he can set the tone early in the powerplay. Farhan’s consistency will be vital in ensuring Pakistan builds a strong foundation.
3. Haseebullah Khan
Haseebullah, a promising young talent, brings flair to the batting lineup. Positioned at the top order, he is expected to rotate the strike effectively while punishing loose deliveries. His ability to play spin will be particularly handy on Zimbabwean pitches.
4. Usman Khan
A powerful striker of the ball, Usman Khan is likely to bat in the middle order. He will be tasked with maintaining momentum during the middle overs and accelerating during the death overs. His boundary-hitting capability makes him a key player in high-pressure situations.
5. Tayyab Tahir
Tahir’s role will be to stabilize the innings if early wickets fall. With his ability to absorb pressure and play long innings, he provides balance to the lineup. His adaptability allows him to play both attacking and defensive roles depending on the match situation.
Also READ: Kamran Ghulam, bowlers power Pakistan to a series clinching win over Zimbabwe in 3rd ODI
6. Irfan Khan
Irfan Khan’s all-round capabilities add depth to the side. As a lower-middle-order batter, he can finish games effectively. His off-spin bowling will offer Pakistan an additional bowling option, especially on slower surfaces.
7. Jahandad Khan
Jahandad brings dynamism to the lower order with his ability to score quick runs. As a finisher, he will aim to maximize runs in the final overs. His fielding prowess adds an extra edge to Pakistan’s defensive strategy.
8. Haris Rauf
The pace spearhead, Haris Rauf, will lead the bowling attack. Known for his fiery pace and yorkers, he will be critical in both the powerplay and death overs. His ability to strike at key moments can turn games in Pakistan’s favour.
9. Sufyan Muqeem
A rising spin talent, Muqeem will be relied upon to contain runs and pick wickets in the middle overs. His variations and control can exploit Zimbabwe’s vulnerabilities against quality spin.
10. Abbas Afridi
Afridi’s medium pace and deceptive cutters will be valuable on Zimbabwean tracks. As an all-rounder, he can also contribute with handy runs in the lower order, making him a versatile asset.
11. Mohammad Hasnain
Hasnain’s raw pace and ability to generate bounce make him a potent weapon. His role will be to complement Rauf in dismantling Zimbabwe’s top order and maintaining pressure throughout the innings.
