Pakistan’s First ODI Against South Africa: Here Is A Look At The Likely Playing Eleven

Pakistan’s first ODI against South Africa begins tomorrow at the Port Elizabeth. So, here is a look at the playing eleven that the men in green are likely to field when the game begins.

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Openers

Imam-ul-Haq is almost certain to open the innings for Pakistan either with Fakhar Zaman or Shan Masood. However, it is highly unlikely that Mickey Arthur will discard one of his favorite boys and therefore, Fakhar will most likely play the game ahead of the inform Shan Masood.

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Middle Order

Being regular members of Pakistan’s ODI side Babar Azam, Mohd. Hafeez and Shoaib Malik are all set to play at number 3, 4 and 5 respectively. Captain Sarfraz Ahmed is the obvious choice as Pakistan’s wicket-keeper batsman for the game and will most probably bat at six particularly, if Pakistan decide to play Talat ahead of Imad.

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All-Rounders

Leg-spinner Shadab Khan too is an automatic choice and should bat at number seven if the team management decides to play Imad Wasim. However, batting all-rounder Hussain Talat will either bat at ahead of the skipper at number six or ahead of Shadab at seven if he makes his debut tomorrow. Given the nature of wickets in South Africa and Hussain Talat’s ability to bowl medium fast; he is likely to be preferred over Imad.

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Fast Bowlers

Mohd. Amir is again an automatic choice and is almost certain to bowl with the new ball. Given Faheem Ashraf’s ability with the bat, he too is likely to play. Hassan Ali then, is favorite for the spot of the third seamer. Nevertheless, Shaheen Afridi might still play if the team management decides to rest anyone of the senior pacers.