Why Pakistan’s Fifth ODI In South Africa Holds Significance!

Pakistan’s fifth ODI in South Africa begins in a few hours time today. Hence, here is a look at why the game holds significance for the men in green.

Read: Pros And Cons Of Replacing Sarfraz Ahmed With Shoaib Malik

Malik and Rizwan’s Chance To Shine As Pakistan’s ODI Skipper

A victory in the final ODI of the series will seal the deal for Pakistan. Thus, it provides an ideal opportunity to Shoaib Malik to shine as Pakistan’s ODI captain and consolidate his chances of taking over from Sarfraz before the world cup.

On the other hand, Rizwan too would want to make most of the opportunity. A good show from the wicket-keeper batsman is bound to raise his chances of taking over from Sarfraz behind the stumps particularly, in the ODI format where during the last few months, the banned skipper hasn’t been in top form.

Read: 3 Talking Points From Sarfraz Ahmed’s 4 Match Ban

Making It 2 In 2

No Asian side has ever managed to win back to back ODI series in South Africa. Hence, a victory during the fifth ODI of the rubber will allow Pakistan to rewrite history.

Read: Sarfraz Ahmed In Serious Trouble: Skipper’s Decisions And Behavior Likely To Have Repercussions 

Sets The Platform Right For The T20s

An ODI victory will raise Pakistan’s confidence and therefore, will set the platform right for them before the 3 match T20 series against the Proteas that begins over the coming weekend.

Read: Removal Of Sarfraz Ahmed And Mickey Arthur: Why It Won’t Help!

Allows Confidence Before The World Cup

Pakistan requires confidence before going into the world cup that begins later in the year and so, an ODI victory in South Africa is perhaps the best thing that can happen to the green shirts while they prepare themselves for the mega event.