The series is currently level at 1-1 with two matches remaining, making this fourth match a decisive one for both sides
PHOTO: PCB
Pakistan is set to take on New Zealand in the fourth T20I on Thursday at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
The series is currently level at 1-1 with two matches remaining, making this fourth match a decisive one for both sides.
The playing XI is likely to feature Babar Azam as captain, who will open alongside Saim Ayub. Usman Khan is set to don the gloves in place of Mohammad Rizwan, who is struggling with a hamstring injury. He didn’t take part in training session held on Tuesday and has been ruled out of the remainder of the series. Irfan Khan Niazi has also been ruled out of the remaining two T20Is.
Fakhar Zaman and Imad Wasim will play their first matches of the series, strengthening Pakistan’s batting and bowling options, respectively.
The middle order will include all-rounders Shadab Khan and Iftikhar Ahmed, while Usama Mir will replace Abrar Ahmed in the squad.
The team will be making several strategic changes to optimize performance, including resting Naseem Shah due to underwhelming performance in previous matches.
Lastly, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Amir, and Abbas Afridi will make up the pace bowling attack.
Pakistan likely XI:
Babar Azam (C), Saim Ayub, Usman Khan (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Abbas Afridi, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Usama Mir